From start to finish, here’s a checklist for the closing period. The time from signed contract to loan closing typically spans 30 to 60 days.

• Take the signed sale contract to your lender and begin the finalization of your loan. At that time, you’ll consider whether you want to lock in your interest rate. The lender will give you a loan estimate (mandated by the “Know Before You Owe” TRID regulations) detailing the terms and costs of your loan within three days.
• Order a home inspection, and perhaps a radon and termite inspection. Try to schedule them so you can tag along.
• Confirm that your lender has ordered an appraisal.
• Follow up on matters uncovered by the home inspection.
• Track deadlines on any contingencies, which are conditions of a sale that are negotiated as part of the contract, such as the seller fixing the roof or the buyer arranging financing.
• Contact your insurance agent to establish a homeowners policyto go into effect the day of closing.
• Schedule utility transfers and complete a change-of-address form. Attend to other moving details.
• Has the closing date been set? Make sure you know where the closing will be held — and how to get there.
• Read the official closing disclosure before the closing date to review all the terms and the fees that will be due at signing. Compare it to the loan estimate you received previously. If there’s a discrepancy, talk to your lender right away.
• Know how much you’ll have to pay in closing costs— and how you’ll be paying (cashier’s check, certified check, wire transfer, etc.).
• Close out any contingencies.
• Confirm with the lender that the mortgage loan processis on track for the scheduled closing date.
• A day or so before closing, conduct a walk-through of the home to be sure it’s in proper condition. If there’s a problem, your agent will need to contact the seller immediately to discuss possible remedies or adjustments at closing.
• Determine whether any additional information or documentation will be required at closing.
• Bring a photo ID and closing funds.
• Sign a mountain of paperwork.
• Get the keys!