Redfin

FEBRUARY 18, 2025

Can you roll closing costs into your mortgage? Basically, folding your closing costs into your loan means you’ll need less cash upfront at closing. What are closing costs? Closing costs are fees and expenses you pay when you finalize a real estate transaction, whether you’re buying or selling a property.

Closing costs

Housing Wire

APRIL 15, 2025

The Boston division of the FBI is sounding the alarm over a rise in home title theft , aka quit claim deed fraud, a scheme in which scammers forge documents to steal property ownership and cash in on unsuspecting homeowners. Home title theft hinges on forged or fraudulent quit claim deeds. Some counties offer title alert systems.

Title

Redfin

JUNE 5, 2025

The absence of mortgage payments, the speed of closing, and the strong appeal to sellers are undeniable benefits. Many cash buyers assume that by sidestepping a home loan, they also bypass the complex array of fees associated with closing. These are not tied to a mortgage but are inherent to transferring property ownership.

Closing costs

Redfin

AUGUST 6, 2025

At this stage, the transaction has officially entered the closing process. A neutral third party – usually an escrow officer from a title or escrow company – manages these funds and documents to ensure all terms of the contract are met before any money or ownership changes hands. When does escrow start?

Earnest money deposit

The Living Room

JUNE 13, 2025

Scheduling Inspections : Coordinating necessary inspections to ensure the property is in good condition. The Escrow Officer or Title Company: Ensuring Neutrality The escrow officer or title company acts as a neutral third party in the transaction. Providing Title Insurance : Protecting you against any title disputes.

Pre-approval

Redfin

MARCH 18, 2025

But what actually happens to that money once the deal closes? This Redfin article will break down exactly what happens to your earnest money at closing, and what to expect in different scenarios. What happens to earnest money at closing? It can cover part of your closing costs. Does it go toward your down payment?

Closing

The Close

NOVEMBER 7, 2024

While The Close likes to keep our articles short, this topic needs a bit more explanation, but trust us, it will be worth your while. Once you’ve secured a deal, it’s just a matter of informing your lender, securing funding, and getting a closing date. Hire a home inspector and get a thorough inspection report.

Hard money loan

Windemere Buying

MAY 19, 2025

Making a Contingent Offer on a Home Once you and the seller agree on the price of a home, both parties have certain responsibilities before closing. Buyers are responsible for securing financing , scheduling a home inspection, and getting the property appraised.

Home sale contingency

Redfin

JULY 18, 2025

This Redfin Real Estate article outlines practical steps every buyer should follow, from budgeting and touring homes to inspections and closing. Closing costs In addition to your down payment, plan for closing costs , which typically range from 2% to 5% of the purchase price.

Pre-approval

Redfin

JUNE 17, 2025

Selling a house can be a long process, and it makes sense that the seller would want to know when the seller gets money after closing – especially if those funds are being used to purchase a new home. In this Redfin article, explore what to expect during the closing process and when the seller can expect to receive their funds.

Closing

The Close

NOVEMBER 25, 2024

When looking into your finances, consider the following factors: Closing costs: These are generally 2% to 5% of the property’s sales price and include lender fees, title insurance, property insurance, and property taxes. The higher the home’s sale price, the higher your closing costs. Let us know in the comments!

Purchase and sale agreement

Redfin

JUNE 23, 2025

In real estate, the due diligence period is the time between an accepted offer and closing. You can schedule inspections, review the title, secure an appraisal, and check for any red flags that could affect your decision to buy. This timeframe grants the buyer permission to thoroughly inspect the property.

Due diligence

Redfin

JUNE 11, 2025

In this article: Home inspection contingency Appraisal contingency Financing contingency Title contingency Home sale contingency Home insurance contingency Kick-out clause FAQs about contingencies in real estate 1. Home inspection contingency This is one of the most frequently used contingencies in real estate.

Purchase and sale agreement

Redfin

JULY 18, 2025

Although it’s possible for a short sale to close in as little as a few weeks, it’s important to be realistic about the timeline. The lender will want to make sure the home sells for a price that’s close to market value, as they are usually losing money on the transaction. The offer letter must include a list of comparable sales.

Short sale

Redfin

JUNE 27, 2025

Don’t skip critical steps like the home inspection or negotiating closing costs. Take note of closing costs, loan terms, and any additional fees. Missing out on first-time homebuyer programs Between saving for a down payment and covering closing costs, buying a home can feel financially overwhelming.

Pre-approval

Redfin

JULY 10, 2025

Earnest money is a refundable deposit held in escrow to show your serious intent to buy, while due diligence fees are usually non-refundable payments made directly to the seller to secure time for inspections and evaluations. >> Read: What Happens to Earnest Money as Closing? What is due diligence? It usually ranges from 0.1%

Due diligence

Redfin

JULY 21, 2025

Many buyers find themselves wondering, can you back out of buying a house before closing? Key takeaways: Buyers can back out before closing, but there may be financial or legal consequences. Reasons for backing out of buying a house There are several legitimate reasons why a buyer might back out of a home purchase before closing.

Earnest money deposit

Redfin

JULY 14, 2025

The money is held in escrow and is typically applied towards the buyer’s closing costs or down payment. Performing unauthorized inspections or repairs. These include financing, home inspection, and appraisal contingencies. Example scenario: The buyer waives the inspection contingency to make their offer more competitive.

Earnest money deposit

Redfin

JULY 15, 2025

This Redfin guide is here to be your checklist, breaking down the upfront costs you’ll need to cover to actually close on your home and make it yours. From inspections to closing fees, here’s what you should know (and plan for) before you get the keys. Closing costs So, what are closing costs ?

Closing costs

Redfin

MARCH 4, 2025

A mortgage pre-approval can also reassure the letter that your financing is likely to be approved during closing. Combine inspections. If you want to inspect for lead, oil, or other specific issues, consider looking into these as part of a general inspection contingency, rather than including separate contingencies for each one.

Pre-approval

Redfin

MARCH 11, 2025

Earnest money is not the same as a down payment, but its usually applied toward your down payment at closing. Its held in an escrow account : A neutral third party (escrow company or title company ) holds the funds until closing. Yes, earnest money is typically applied to your down payment at closing.

Earnest money deposit

Redfin

JULY 9, 2025

Between setting a budget, getting pre-approved, and closing the deal, getting everything squared away can make all the difference. You may have saved enough for your down payment, but make sure to also account for closing costs, taxes, insurance, and any other unforeseen expenses that may arise.

Pre-approval

Redfin

MARCH 4, 2025

Pre-listing home inspection As the seller, it may be helpful to get an inspection of your home done before selling your home , though in most markets the buyer will pay for a home inspection and most states do not require a pre-listing home inspection.

Purchase and sale agreement

Redfin

AUGUST 6, 2025

Smart preparation leads to a smoother sale, stronger offers, and fewer surprises during closing. Tackle repairs Your agent will flag items that could be red flags during a buyer’s inspection. Selling your home ? 12 things to do before selling your home: A checklist 1.

Staging

Redfin

AUGUST 6, 2025

However, in most cases, once a seller has accepted your offer, the closing process typically takes 30 to 60 days – unless you made an all-cash offer. Remember, you’ll still have to save for closing costs, which can be 5% of the purchase price. Your agent should be able to recommend a title company.

Pre-approval

Marco Santarelli

JANUARY 1, 2025

As someone who has followed this market closely, I can tell you that the changes are substantial and require careful consideration for anyone looking to buy, sell, or currently own a condo in the Sunshine State. Scrutiny: Now, as a buyer, you have to ask tough questions: Have the inspections been completed?

Marketing

Toronto Realty Blog

NOVEMBER 14, 2024

How about this one: This looks like the seller inspecting a new condo during a PDI. – Here’s a common sense rule: MLS Listings appearing on the MLS System shall be immediately available (subject to applicable legislation, the rights and reasonable accommodation to occupancy) for showings, inspections, and registration of Offers.

MLS

Rochester Real Estate

NOVEMBER 5, 2015

This involves making a careful budget that includes potential costs like the down payment, closing costs, taxes, and possible renovation expenses. Once you’ve found a home, you’ll need to make an offer, inspect the property, and navigate the closing process, which may involve legal nuances specific to New York.

Purchase and sale agreement

The Close

NOVEMBER 12, 2024

This article breaks down seven steps to help you learn how to buy land—covering everything from the pros and cons to financing and closing the sale. Inspect the land: Take a stroll on the property—bring your favorite boots. Title insurance protects your interest in the property in a dispute. Let’s get into it!

Land

Redfin

JULY 30, 2025

The payment is usually made via wire transfer or cashier’s check at closing. Because there’s no lender involved, cash deals tend to close faster and carry fewer complications. The payment is typically made through a wire transfer or a cashier’s check at closing. Both parties sign closing documents, finalizing the sale.

Purchase and sale agreement

Redfin

JULY 3, 2025

While the process varies widely, the national average time to sell a house typically ranges between 55 and 70 days from listing to closing. Inspection & Appraisal (7–14 days): Once under contract, the buyer arranges a home inspection and the lender orders an appraisal. Recoup upfront closing and moving costs.

Staging

Redfin

JUNE 27, 2025

Seller concessions refer to closing costs or other fees that the seller agrees to pay on the buyer’s behalf. Seller concessions are financial contributions made by the seller to reduce the buyer’s out-of-pocket expenses at closing. For example, a buyer might ask the seller to pay $5,000 toward their closing costs. They can.

Seller concession

HomeLight

MAY 15, 2025

Fast facts about selling a house as is in Plymouth Median sales price in Plymouth $650,000 Average days on market (DOM) for Plymouth 53 Disclosures Plymouth law requires sellers to disclose material facts about the property through the Property Transfer Notification Certification and Title 5 of the Massachusetts Environmental Code.

As-is

Rochester Real Estate

NOVEMBER 5, 2015

The deposit will then be used as part of the closing costs or down payment when the purchase successfully closes. Home inspections Mortgage contingency Real Estate Appraisal Home sale contingency These are the most typical contingencies that could allow for the return of your home deposit. Why Do You Need to Pay a Deposit?

Earnest money deposit

Lighter Side of Real Estate

JUNE 25, 2025

Lenders, inspectors, title reps, insurance providers—they all play a role, and each of them will likely need some kind of document, signature, or decision from you at some point along the way. If the timing works, you might even be able to knock out inspections or appraisals before you leave.

Agents

Redfin

JULY 29, 2025

Don’t forget about utilities, HOA fees, and upfront costs like closing fees. It’s a one-time fee, usually paid before closing. Inspection fee An inspection helps you spot problems before you commit—like structural issues, pests, or outdated systems. For that $300,000 home, that’s $6,000 to $15,000 at closing.

Inspection

Redfin

JANUARY 10, 2025

The costs and scope of these upfront costs will vary depending on the type and condition of your property, but some major costs to consider are pre-sale home inspections , making repairs or upgrades, home photography, and staging. Before determining when to sell your property, you should estimate what your closing costs will be.

Seller concession