5 Ways to Keep Your Closing On Track

Closing day is the final hurdle in a real estate transaction, but unexpected issues can stall the process at the last minute. With a little preparation, buyers and sellers can avoid the most common bottlenecks and walk into their closing appointment with confidence.

Here are five practical ways to keep your closing on schedule — and on good terms.

1. Fast-track your paperwork

Missing or incomplete documents are a leading cause of closing delays. The moment your lender or title company asks for something, make it a priority.

• Submit requested documents to your lender and title company within 24 hours.
• Provide clear, uncropped photos of your government-issued ID.
• Double-check the spelling of all names on the contract to prevent last-minute rewrites.

2. Freeze your finances

Lenders typically run a final credit check just days before closing to ensure your financial situation hasn't changed. Even small shifts can trigger a fresh review.

• Avoid opening new credit cards or taking out auto loans.
• Avoid making large purchases, like buying furniture or appliances, on credit.
• Keep your current job and avoid any sudden career shifts until the keys are in your hand.

3. Verify wire instructions securely

Wire fraud is a major threat in real estate. While it's nothing to fear when handled properly, it requires caution. Before you send any funds, take the extra step to confirm instructions verbally.

• Call your title company using a known, trusted phone number before sending money.
• Confirm every digit of the routing and account numbers over the phone.
• Never rely on email links or phone numbers listed in a sudden email update.

4. Schedule the final walkthrough early

The final walkthrough ensures the property is in the agreed-upon condition before closing. Leave time to resolve any surprises.

• Schedule the walkthrough with your real estate agent 24 to 48 hours before the official closing time whenever possible.
• Verify all agreed repairs have been completed and receipts are provided.
• Test major systems, like the AC and appliances, to ensure they still work.

5. Review the Closing Disclosure immediately

Lenders must provide the Closing Disclosure (CD) at least three days before you sign. That three-day clock starts when you acknowledge receipt, so review it as soon as it arrives.

• Compare the CD loan terms to your original Loan Estimate right away.
• Check the exact amount of cash needed to close so your bank draft or wire is perfect.
• Flag discrepancies immediately with your loan officer to avoid resetting the mandatory three-day waiting period.

Closing day should be a celebration

By staying proactive with your paperwork, protecting your finances, and verifying your wire instructions over the phone, you can eliminate the most common bottlenecks before they ever disrupt your timeline.

Remember, a successful closing relies heavily on open communication. When in doubt, reach out! Keep in touch with your real estate agent, lender, and title company throughout the process so everyone stays aligned.

Have questions about your upcoming closing? Contact ClearPath Title and we'll help you stay on track.