What Is “Clear to Close” — and What Happens Next?*
- Andrew Georgitsis
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
You’re Clear to Close! Now What?
📍 Introduction
If you’re buying with an FHA or conventional loan, the moment you hear “clear to close” is a huge milestone. It means your lender has officially signed off on your loan, and you’re nearly at the finish line.
But there are still a few steps left — here’s what happens between “clear to close” and getting your keys.
✅ What Does “Clear to Close” Mean?
It means your lender has:
✅ Verified all your income, assets, and documents
✅ Completed underwriting
✅ Approved the appraisal
✅ Cleared all conditions
You’re officially approved for closing — and now your title, escrow, and lender teams get to work on final logistics.
📦 What Happens Next?
Step | Description |
📅 Closing Disclosure | You receive a final document showing loan terms & costs |
📝 Sign Loan Docs | Usually at escrow or with a mobile notary |
🧾 Final Verification | Employment + credit rechecked |
💸 Fund the Loan | Your lender sends funds to escrow |
🗝 Get Keys | Escrow closes and title transfers to you |
Most buyers close within 3 business days after getting cleared.
🧠 Final Buyer Tips Before Closing
Don’t open new credit cards or take out loans
Double-check your wire instructions — watch out for fraud
Review your Closing Disclosure carefully
Schedule your final walkthrough (make sure the home looks the same!)
💰 FHA vs. Conventional at Closing
Item | FHA Loan | Conventional Loan |
Down Payment | 3.5% | 3–20% |
Mortgage Insurance | Required (MIP) | May not be required |
Closing Costs | 2–5% | 2–5% |
Funding Timeline | ~3 days | ~3 days |
Both loan types close quickly if all docs are submitted on time.
💬 Final Thought
Whether you’re buying with FHA or conventional financing, hearing “clear to close” means you’ve made it through the hardest part. Now it’s just a matter of a few signatures and one big set of keys.
📞 Need help getting to “clear to close” on your loan? We’ll guide you through it with no surprises. 👉 Book a Loan Prep Call Or reply with your loan type — we’ll tailor your checklist.
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