Welcome to our fifth and final post in this five-part series about setting up expectations during the home buying process. This series covers:

  1. Introduction (August blog posted; see here: link)
  2. Escrow Process (September blog posted; see here: link)
  3. Disclosures & Investigation Responsibilities (October blog posted; see here: link)
  4. Financing Process (November blog posted; see here: Iink)
  5. Pre-Closing & Final Steps (This blog post)

Parts 2-5 of this series are split into two parts—one tailored for buyers, like this post, and one for sellers—because the concerns and responsibilities can differ greatly depending on your role in the transaction. Now, let’s discuss the Pre-Closing Process for Buyers!

After winding your way through the purchase process, timing now becomes both personal and critical. This is the exciting phase where you prepare for ownership, plan improvements, and coordinate your move — all under a tight timeline.

When a lender is involved, timing can get tricky, especially in California, where the process spans three business days beginning on the date you sign your loan documents. But before we look at that 3-day window, let’s review what happens leading up to the close of escrow.

Lender Drafts Loan Documents

  1. Once your lender issues final loan approval — meaning all conditions have been satisfied — you’ll receive the Closing Disclosure (CD). The CD summarizes your final loan terms and closing costs, allowing you to compare them to your initial disclosures. You must wait three business days after acknowledging this disclosure before signing your loan documents. This waiting period sets the timeline for everything that follows.
  2. During this three-day waiting period, the lender prepares and sends your loan documents to escrow.
  3. Once escrow receives the documents, they review and organize them for signing.
  4. You’ll then receive a call from escrow to schedule your signing and notarization appointment — either in their office or via a traveling notary — after the required three-day waiting period.
  5. Once signed, escrow returns the documents to the lender for review and acceptance.
  6. After the lender reviews and accepts the documents, they’ll be ready to fund — provided your personal funds have also been received by escrow (more on that below).

Contract Performance Activities

  1. On the same day you sign your loan documents, wire your final funds to escrow using the same verified wire instructions you used for your initial deposit.
    • Important: Wire instructions will never change. If you receive any email or message suggesting otherwise, ignore it and contact escrow directly to confirm details before sending funds.
    • The lender will not fund your loan until your funds have been confirmed by escrow.
  2. Conduct your final walkthrough within five days of closing to confirm that all agreed-upon repairs are complete and that the property remains in the same condition as when you went under contract.

The Three-Day Closing Process in California

Many out-of-state buyers expect to sign, fund, and receive keys on the same day — but California operates differently. Here’s what to expect:

  • Two days before closing: You sign loan documents and wire your funds to escrow.
  • One day before closing: The lender funds your loan.
  • Closing day: Title officially records, and ownership transfers to you.

The exact time of day for recording varies, so plan to wait for confirmation of the closing before expecting keys to your new home.

New Home Ownership Activities

  1. Set up utilities for your anticipated closing date and coordinate with the seller so their accounts end when yours begin — preventing any service gaps.
  2. File a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service if you’ll be moving in immediately after closing.
  3. Schedule movers early to secure availability.
  4. Remember, sellers are required to leave the property clean and free of debris, though not necessarily professionally cleaned. If you’d like a deep cleaning, arrange for it after closing.

✅ Tips for Loan Document Signing:

  • You must be physically located in the U.S. (or at a U.S. embassy or consulate) for signing. If you’ll be abroad, a Power of Attorney should be arranged in advance.
  • Bring a valid driver’s license or passport for notarization.
  • Plan to spend about one hour with the notary during your signing appointment.

Thank you for following along with our “Congratulations, You’re in Escrow! What Happens Next?” blog series. We hope these insights have helped you better understand what to expect during each phase of the escrow process—whether you’re buying or selling a home. Remember, every transaction is unique, and having an experienced agent by your side makes all the difference.

If you’re thinking about making a move or simply want to plan ahead for your next real estate step, reach out to Team Plunkett today for personalized guidance and local expertise.

Leverage the strength of Vista Sotheby’s. Experience the dedicated attention of Team Plunkett. Buy or sell with confidence.

Note: Some items may be specific to our local area. Real estate rules and customs vary by state and region. Always check with your agent for guidance specific to your situation.