What to Expect on Closing Day in Texas

On closing day, you sign your final loan documents at the title company, the lender funds the loan, the deed is recorded, and you get the keys. Before you arrive, you will review your Closing Disclosure and send your funds by wire or cashier's check. Signing typically takes about an hour, and in Texas, keys are usually handed over once the loan funds and the sale is complete.

You found the home, your loan is approved, and closing day is finally here. If you are not sure what to expect, here is a step-by-step look at how the day typically goes.

Key takeaways

• You will receive a Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. Review it carefully.
• Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Your closing funds are sent by wire or cashier's check.
• Always confirm wire instructions by phone using a number you already trust.
• Signing usually takes 45 minutes to an hour.
• Keys typically change hands after the loan funds and the deed is recorded, as set by your contract.

The days before closing

Clear to close

Before you can schedule your signing, your loan must be "clear to close." That means the underwriter has signed off on all conditions: the appraisal, title, insurance, and any final documents. We will let you and your Realtor know the moment you are clear.

Your Closing Disclosure

At least three business days before closing, you will receive a Closing Disclosure (CD). It lists your final loan terms, monthly payment, and every closing cost. Compare it to the Loan Estimate you received at the start. Small differences are normal, for example prepaid interest shifts with your closing date, but if anything looks off, call us right away. We want everything accurate before you sit down at the table.

Homeowners insurance

Your homeowners insurance policy must be in place, and the first year's premium is often paid at or before closing. Make sure your insurance agent has sent the declarations page to us and the title company.

Final walkthrough

Most buyers do a final walkthrough with their Realtor a day or two before closing, or the morning of. Check that agreed repairs were made, appliances that convey are there, and the home is in the condition you expect.

What to bring

• A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. If your name appears differently on any documents, let us know ahead of time.
• Your closing funds. Most buyers send a wire transfer, and some use a cashier's check. The title company will give you the exact amount in advance.
• Your co-borrower, if you have one. Everyone on the loan typically needs to sign.
• Your questions. No question is too small.

We send every client a checklist before closing so nothing is missed.

A word about wire fraud

Wire fraud targeting homebuyers is a real risk. Criminals may send emails that look like they come from your title company, lender, or Realtor with "updated" wire instructions. Before you send any money, call the title company using a phone number you already have or find independently, not one from the email, and confirm the instructions verbally. We will never change wire instructions by email.

The signing

In Texas, closings are usually handled at a title company. Signing typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. The closing agent will walk you through each document, including:

• The promissory note, your promise to repay the loan.
• The deed of trust, which secures the loan against the property. Texas uses deeds of trust rather than mortgages in the traditional sense.
• The Closing Disclosure, which you sign to confirm you received it.
• Various disclosures and affidavits, including documents about occupancy, identity, and the property.

Take your time. If something does not make sense, ask. The closing agent is there to help, and we are a phone call away.

Funding and keys

After everyone signs, the lender reviews the signed package and funds the loan, and the title company disburses funds and records the deed with the county. On a typical Texas purchase, this often happens the same day or within a short window after signing. Your purchase contract sets when you take possession, and your Realtor will coordinate the key handoff once the transaction is complete.

After closing

• Keep your documents safe. Store your closing package, including the note, deed of trust, and Closing Disclosure, in a secure place. A digital copy helps too.
• Watch for your first payment information. Your first mortgage payment is typically due about 30 to 60 days after closing, depending on your closing date. Your loan may also be serviced by a different company, and you will receive a notice if it is.
• File your homestead exemption. In Texas, you can apply with your county appraisal district for a homestead exemption on your primary residence, which can lower your property taxes. Do not skip this.
• Be wary of official-looking mail. New homeowners often receive letters offering to file their homestead exemption for a fee or sell them a copy of their deed. You can do these things yourself directly with the county.

We will follow up after closing to make sure everything is set, and we are always here for questions.

How to avoid last-minute delays

1. Respond quickly to document requests during underwriting.
2. Keep your credit and finances steady until after closing.
3. Line up homeowners insurance early.
4. Confirm wire instructions by phone well before closing day.
5. Tell us right away about any change in your job, income, or debts.

Have questions about closing?

Call 512-657-1333 or start your pre-approval if you are just getting started. Most of our loans close in 21 to 30 days from contract, and we will walk you through every step. New to buying? Visit our first-time home buyer page.