How Long Does Signing Closing Papers Take? What to Expect on Closing Day

Closing day usually takes a few hours from start to finish, with the signing itself lasting about 1-2 hours for buyers and less than an hour for sellers. The exact length depends on whether you’re financing with a mortgage, paying cash, or if last-minute issues pop up. Knowing how long signing closing papers takes – and what to expect throughout the day – will help you plan your schedule and avoid surprises on closing day.

Quick snapshot:

• Signing appointment (buyer): ~1-2 hours
• Signing appointment (seller): often under 1 hour
• Full closing timeline (offer → keys): ~30-60 days

What happens on the day of closing?

Closing day is the finish line in the homebuying process: the seller transfers title, closing costs are paid, and you usually walk out with the keys to your new home.

While the day is heavily focused on signing documents, several steps happen before and after those signatures. Here’s what to expect on closing day from start to finish:

1. Arrival and identity check

You’ll present a government-issued photo ID and provide any last documents the title company requested (like proof of insurance or wire instructions).

2. Review of the Closing Disclosure (CD)

The closing agent will confirm the final numbers – loan terms, closing costs, and how funds will be disbursed. By law, buyers should have received this document at least three business days in advance, giving time to review it and ask questions.

3. Signing the loan packet (buyers only)

For buyers with a mortgage, this is usually the lengthiest part of signing closing papers. You’ll sign the promissory note, mortgage or deed of trust, and all lender-required disclosures. Each document confirms your agreement to the loan terms and your obligations as a borrower.

4. Signing title and transfer documents

Both parties sign the documents needed to transfer ownership. Buyers sign the deed, settlement statement, affidavits, and other disclosures. Sellers typically sign the deed transferring ownership and their closing statement outlining final proceeds.

5. Funds exchange

Buyers provide their “cash to close,” which includes the down payment, closing costs, prepaid expenses (like property taxes or insurance), and any prorated fees. Most buyers wire funds in advance and bring proof of transfer, while some bring a certified or cashier’s check – a personal check is typically not acceptable. The title company verifies these funds to prevent fraud and ensure the seller gets paid.

6. Notarization and recording

Once all documents are signed, the closing agent notarizes the necessary papers and submits them to the county for official recording of the new ownership. This step makes the transfer legally binding and enables the lender to release funds to the seller.

7. Keys and final steps of closing

After recording and funding, buyers typically receive the keys to their new home, while sellers receive their net proceeds within the next day or two. In some states or situations, recording may delay key handoff until the next business day.

How long does it take to sign closing papers?

The average signing appointment takes between 1-2 hours for buyers and 15-45 minutes for sellers since they have fewer documents to sign. If you want to review everything line by line or ask detailed questions, plan for extra time.

The actual length can vary depending on a few factors:

• Loan vs. cash: Mortgage closings take longer because buyers must sign a full loan packet; cash buyers often finish more quickly since fewer lender forms are required.
• Lender readiness and “clear to close”: If your lender has already issued a clear to close, the process tends to be smoother and quicker. If conditions are still outstanding, expect delays.
• Number of borrowers/complexity: Extra borrowers, co-signers, or parties signing with power of attorney can extend the appointment.
• State practices: Some states require a closing attorney to be present or additional legal steps, which can lengthen the time that closing day takes.
• Electronic vs. wet-ink closings: eClosings – whether hybrid or remote notarization – can shorten the signing time or make it more convenient, though availability depends on your state, lender, and title company.

Plan your schedule for at least two hours, but be prepared to stay longer if questions or corrections appear.

FAQs: Closing day logistics and timelines

Do buyers and sellers sign at the same time on closing day?

Not necessarily. Some states or title companies schedule separate appointments for buyers and sellers, while others coordinate a joint signing. Regardless, the process is similar for each party, just with fewer documents for sellers.

How long does closing usually take? 

The closing process typically takes 30-60 days from accepted offer to getting the keys, depending on factors like financing, inspections, and the parties’ readiness. The closing day itself takes just a few hours. It’s possible to close in under 30 days (sometimes as quickly as 2 weeks), especially if you have an all-cash offer.

>> Read more: 10 Steps to Expect When Closing on a House

Can the seller leave once they’ve signed their documents?

Yes. Once the seller’s portion is complete, they technically don’t need to stay for the buyer’s signing. The title or escrow company handles the rest of the process.

When do buyers get the keys?

Typically after the county records the new deed and the lender releases funds. In some cases this happens the same day, but in others it may be the next business day, which could affect when you can move into your new home after closing.

What happens if closing is delayed?

Closings can be pushed back if funds aren’t received on time, if last-minute lender conditions arise, or if the county recorder’s office is backed up. In most cases, the closing agent works quickly to resolve the issue and reschedule within a day or two.

Do buyers need to bring anything besides an ID?

Yes, there are several items buyers need to bring to closing. They’ll need to bring proof of funds if wired ahead of time, or a certified/cashier’s check if paying in person. Some title companies may also request the original homeowners insurance binder or any final documents from the lender.

>> Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Closing Documents

What if someone can’t attend the closing in person?

Many title companies offer remote or mail-away closings, or allow a legal power of attorney to sign on the absent party’s behalf. Options vary by state, so it’s best to coordinate this in advance.

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