If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to close on a house in less than 30 days, the answer is yes – it can be done in under a month. Achieving a fast closing requires careful planning, organized documentation, and clear communication among all parties. Buyers often need to move quickly due to factors like job relocations, expiring leases, or competing in a fast-moving housing market.
With a motivated seller and the right professionals – agents, lenders, and title companies – a 30-day closing, or even faster, is entirely possible. In this Redfin real estate article, we’ll explain how buyers can streamline the process and increase their chances of closing in less than 30 days.
How quickly can you close on a house?
In certain situations, particularly all-cash transactions, a home can close in as little as one to two weeks. The timeline ultimately depends on factors such as financing, seller preparedness, and how efficiently inspections, appraisals, and paperwork are managed.
In most cases, closing on a home takes about 30 to 60 days when a mortgage is involved. That window allows time for the lender to process your loan, verify income and credit, and order an appraisal. Cash purchases often move the fastest, since there’s no loan approval or underwriting required. allowing some buyers to close in less than 30 days.
It’s important to note that the closing date is specified in the purchase agreement and agreed upon by both buyer and seller. While the contract sets the target, the actual speed depends on the circumstances of the transaction and how smoothly each step comes together.
Factors that influence a fast closing
- Financing type: Cash purchases close fastest with no lender approvals or contingencies. Conventional, FHA, or VA loans typically take 30-45 days (or slightly longer for government-backed loans) due to underwriting, income verification, and appraisals.
- Seller preparedness: Sellers with a clear title, completed disclosures, and minimal repairs allow for a faster closing. In competitive markets, sellers often favor buyers who can meet a tighter timeline.
- Team expertise and responsiveness: Quick, efficient communication from agents, lenders, and title companies helps prevent delays in inspections, appraisals, and document processing.
- Document readiness and scheduling: Having pre-approval, proof of funds, and all necessary paperwork ready, along with promptly scheduling inspections and appraisals, keeps the process on track and can significantly shorten the timeline.
How buyers can improve their chances of closing in less than 30 days
Closing on a house in under 30 days requires careful planning, proactive communication, and strategic decision-making. While every transaction is unique, there are several practical steps buyers can take to improve their chances of a fast closing.
1. Get pre-approved early
A full pre-approval involves a thorough review of your income, assets, credit history, and employment, completing much of the mortgage underwriting before you submit an offer. This speeds up the loan process and strengthens your position with sellers.
To keep the closing on track, avoid taking actions – like opening new credit accounts or making large purchases – that could jeopardize your mortgage approval.
>> Read more: How Often Does an Underwriter Deny a Loan?
2. Shop around for lenders before submitting an offer
Not all lenders move at the same speed, and for a fast closing, the choice of lender can make a huge difference. Research and compare lenders ahead of time to find one known for fast turnaround and responsive communication. Choosing the right lender before submitting an offer can prevent bottlenecks once your offer is accepted and help keep a fast closing on track.
3. Organize necessary documents ahead of time
Having your paperwork ready allows the lender, title company, and other parties to move quickly. Delays often occur when buyers scramble to provide documentation after an offer is accepted.
Buyers should prepare:
- Pay stubs, and W-2s or 1099s
- Bank statements
- Tax returns
- Proof of funds
- Employment verification
- Identification
>> Read more: What to Bring to Closing Day: A Checklist for Homebuyers
4. Schedule inspections and appraisals promptly
Once your offer is accepted, immediately arrange the home inspection and appraisal if needed. Prompt scheduling ensures that any issues or adjustments can be addressed without slowing down the closing timeline.
5. Be flexible with contingencies and move-in dates
While it’s important not to skip critical inspections, shortening timelines for contingencies – like repairs or appraisal reviews – can help speed up the process. Similarly, being flexible on move-in dates (if possible) can make sellers more willing to accommodate a fast closing.
6. Maintain clear and frequent communication
Fast closings require coordination among all parties involved. Stay in regular contact with your lender, real estate agent, and title company to confirm deadlines and follow up on any outstanding items. Proactive communication can prevent small issues from becoming major delays.