By the time you reach closing day, you’re almost at the finish line of the home buying process. After completing inspections, working through the appraisal and underwriting process, and doing your final walkthrough, the last step is settlement.
If you missed the previous step in the buyer journey, you can read it here:
The Final Walkthrough Before Closing: What Buyers Should Check
Closing day is the final step — the moment when ownership officially transfers and you receive the keys to your new home.
Here’s what buyers in Wicomico County can expect on closing day.
Reviewing Your Closing Disclosure
Before settlement, your lender will provide a Closing Disclosure. This document outlines the final details of your loan and purchase, including:
• Loan terms
• Monthly payment
• Closing costs
• Cash required at closing
You’ll typically receive this document at least three days before settlement, giving you time to review everything carefully.
Bringing Funds to Closing
If you have money due at closing — such as your down payment or closing costs — those funds are usually delivered by wire transfer or certified funds to the title company.
Your lender and settlement company will provide instructions ahead of time so everything is ready on closing day.
Signing the Paperwork
At settlement, you’ll sign several documents related to your mortgage and property ownership. These typically include:
• Loan documents
• Settlement statement
• Property transfer documents
Your settlement agent will walk you through each document and explain what you’re signing.
Receiving the Keys
Once all the settlement documents are signed and the closing is finalized, you’ll typically receive the keys to your new home.
In most cases, buyers receive the keys the same day at settlement, allowing you to officially take possession of the property and begin moving in.
Congratulations — you’re now a homeowner.
Recording the Transaction
After settlement is completed, the title company records the transaction with the county.
Recording the deed officially transfers ownership into the buyer’s name and finalizes the legal side of the transaction.
This step usually happens shortly after closing once the settlement documents are processed.
The Complete Buyer Journey
Buying a home involves several important steps, and each stage helps move you closer to the finish line.
If you missed any part of the process, you can follow the full step-by-step buyer series below.
Start at the Beginning:
Thinking About Buying a Home on Maryland’s Eastern Shore
-Shawn M. Long
REALTOR® | ERA Martin Associates
410-251-8193
Real estate doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — you don’t have to figure it out alone.