Back to Education Center
Closing Guide

The Closing Process

Understand the final steps of buying a home, from closing timeline to costs and what to expect on closing day.

Closing Timeline

From offer acceptance to receiving your keys, here's what happens during the typical 30-45 day closing period in Vermont.

Days 1-3

Offer Acceptance to Contract

  • Purchase agreement signed by both parties
  • Earnest money deposit submitted to escrow
  • Contingency periods begin
  • Title search initiated

Tip: Review your purchase agreement carefully and ensure you understand all contingencies and deadlines.

Days 3-17

Due Diligence Period

  • Home inspection completed
  • Appraisal ordered and completed
  • Review all inspection reports
  • Negotiate repairs or credits if needed
  • Finalize mortgage application

Tip: Most contingencies must be satisfied or waived during this period. Stay proactive and meet all deadlines.

Days 7-30

Mortgage Processing

  • Submit additional documentation to lender
  • Underwriter reviews loan application
  • Appraisal reviewed by lender
  • Loan approval received
  • Clear to close issued

Tip: Avoid making major purchases or changes to your credit during this period. It can affect your loan approval.

Days 30-40

Final Preparations

  • Review closing disclosure (3 days before closing)
  • Arrange homeowners insurance
  • Schedule final walkthrough
  • Prepare certified funds for closing
  • Coordinate with title company

Tip: The closing disclosure must be provided at least 3 business days before closing. Review it carefully for accuracy.

Day 40-45

Closing Day

  • Complete final walkthrough
  • Sign closing documents
  • Pay closing costs and down payment
  • Receive keys to your new home
  • Title transfers to your name

Tip: Bring your government-issued ID and be prepared for 1-2 hours of signing documents. Congratulations!

Understanding Closing Costs

Closing costs typically range from 2-5% of the purchase price. Here's a breakdown of common fees you can expect.

Lender Fees

Loan Origination Fee

0.5-1% of loan amount

Fee charged by lender for processing your loan

Discount Points

$0-2% of loan amount

Optional fee to lower your interest rate

Appraisal Fee

$400-$600

Cost to determine property value

Credit Report Fee

$25-$50

Fee to pull your credit report

Third-Party Fees

Home Inspection

$300-$600

Professional inspection of property condition

Survey Fee

$300-$500

Property boundary survey (if required)

Pest Inspection

$75-$150

Termite and pest inspection (if required)

Title and Escrow

Title Search

$200-$400

Research to verify clear property title

Title Insurance

$500-$2,000

Protects against title defects

Escrow Fee

$300-$600

Fee for managing transaction funds

Recording Fee

$50-$250

Government fee to record the deed

Prepaid Costs

Homeowners Insurance

$800-$2,000

First year premium (paid at closing)

Property Taxes

Varies

Prorated portion based on closing date

Prepaid Interest

Varies

Interest from closing date to first payment

HOA Fees

Varies

If applicable, prorated HOA dues

Example: Closing Costs on a $300,000 Home

Low End (2%)

$6,000

Average (3.5%)

$10,500

High End (5%)

$15,000

Plus your down payment. These costs can vary based on loan type, lender, and property location in Vermont.

Smart Money Management

Protect yourself and save money with these essential tips for managing your closing costs.

1

Budget for 2-5% of Purchase Price

On a $300,000 home in Vermont, expect $6,000-$15,000 in closing costs. Plan accordingly and have extra reserves.

2

Ask for a Loan Estimate

Lenders must provide a Loan Estimate within 3 days of application. This helps you compare offers and understand costs.

3

Negotiate Seller Credits

In some markets, you can negotiate for the seller to cover part of your closing costs, especially if repairs are needed.

4

Wire Funds Securely

Call your title company directly to confirm wiring instructions. Wire fraud is common—never rely on email alone.

5

Review the Closing Disclosure Carefully

Compare it to your Loan Estimate. Question any fees that have increased significantly or that you don't understand.

6

Keep Money in Accounts

Don't move money between accounts or make large deposits during the closing process without notifying your lender.

Documents to Bring to Closing

Come prepared with these essential documents to ensure a smooth closing process.

Identification

  • Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport)
  • Social Security card or proof of SSN

Financial Documents

  • Proof of homeowners insurance
  • Cashier's check or wire confirmation for closing costs
  • Final mortgage approval letter

Property Documents

  • Copy of purchase agreement
  • Home inspection reports
  • Appraisal report
  • Survey (if applicable)

Final Walkthrough Checklist

Complete this walkthrough 24 hours before closing to ensure the property is in the agreed-upon condition.

All agreed-upon repairs have been completed

Property is in same condition as when offer was made

All fixtures and appliances included in sale are present

No new damage has occurred to the property

Utilities are on and functioning (test all outlets, faucets, appliances)

Garage door openers and keys are available

All seller's belongings have been removed

Windows and doors lock properly

Important

If you discover any issues during the final walkthrough, notify your agent immediately. Don't proceed to closing until problems are resolved or addressed in writing.

Ready to Close on Your Vermont Home?

Our team will guide you through every step of the closing process, ensuring you understand all costs and paperwork. Let's make your closing day smooth and stress-free.