What happens between the agreement and the keys.

Take time with the details. This guide gives you a starting point for the questions to ask and the decisions to review.

Review title.

A title search looks for recorded liens, ownership issues and other matters affecting the property. The title commitment describes what the company found and the coverage it proposes. Review it within the time allowed by your contract.

Prepare for settlement.

The title or settlement company gathers documents, payoffs and final figures. Confirm the local process and who handles signing, funding and recording for your transaction.

Understand title insurance.

An owner’s policy protects the buyer’s ownership interest, subject to its terms. A lender’s policy protects the lender. Costs and who pays depend on your contract and local practice; ask the title company to explain both.

Check the final numbers.

Review closing documents and ask about anything that differs from expectations. Confirm how and when required funds must arrive through independently verified instructions.

Know when possession begins.

Signing, funding, recording and possession may occur at different times. Follow your purchase contract rather than assuming the home is yours as soon as you sign.

Protect yourself from wire fraud.

Scammers target closings. Before wiring any money, call your title company at a number you independently know is real. Never trust wiring instructions sent by email or text alone.

Let’s talk about your next step.

General educational information, not legal, tax or lending advice. Your contract and circumstances determine the requirements. For legal or tax questions, speak with a qualified professional; your lender and title company can explain their parts of the process.