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Your Homebuying Timeline

Your Homebuying Timeline

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you'll make. Whether you're relocating or just moving across town, the process can feel like a lot. At Dueñas Realty Group, we believe that a confident buyer is an empowered one. So we’re breaking down what the journey usually looks like, from the moment you decide to start exploring to what to expect even after you’ve closed. If you're just starting to feel like you're ready to buy, or you’re deep into Zillow scrolls, this guide’s for you.

Step 1: You Decide It’s Time
Maybe you're tired of renting. Maybe you need more space, or you're ready to invest in a place that feels like home. Once you know you're ready, it helps to get clear on your budget, your ideal timeline, and what you want versus what you need in a home. This is also a great time to connect with a real estate team you trust (that’s us) to start talking strategy.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved
Before touring any homes, it’s important to get pre-approved with a trusted lender. This helps you understand how much you can borrow and shows sellers you’re serious when it’s time to make an offer. If you need lender recommendations, we’ve got you covered. Quick note: Pre-approval digs deeper than pre-qualification, and it’s the one sellers care about most; it's preferred it's from within the last ~30 days.

Step 3: Start the Search
Let the fun begin. We’ll help you hone in on your list of must-haves, explore neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle, and talk through what’s realistic based on the current market. Whether you’re eyeing a modern build in Georgetown or a charming bungalow or condo in East Austin, we’ll help you find what feels right. We tour together, ask questions that matter, and look past the surface to help make sure it's the move you want.

Step 4: Make an Offer
When you find the one, we act quickly and strategically. We’ll walk you through market data, help you craft a strong offer, and advocate for your interests the whole way. This part moves quickly, typically completed 1-3 days (that's creating and submitting the offer, negotiations, and finalizing the contract).

Step 5: Under Contract and Into Due Diligence
Once your offer is accepted, the next phase of the buying process begins. Here's what happens next: home inspection, appraisal, finalizing your loan, and negotiating any needed repairs. We manage timelines, coordinate with all parties, and keep things moving smoothly while you focus on planning your next chapter.

What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted? A Look at the Typical 30–45 Day Closing Timeline

Here’s a general timeline of what to expect once you're under contract:

  • Day 1–3: Contract Executed – Earnest money and option fee are delivered to the title company. The option period begins (typically 7 to 10 days, negotiated in the contract). The title company opens title and starts the commitment process.
  • Day 2–10: Option Period – Schedule and complete the 3rd party home inspection (not required, but highly recommended). Review the inspection report. Negotiate repairs or seller concessions if needed. HOA documents are ordered if applicable. The survey and T-47 are requested (either provided by the seller or ordered new). Begin the loan application and sign the initial disclosures with your lender.
  • Day 5–15: Post-Option Period – Finalize any amendments to the contract following negotiations. Review the title commitment. The lender orders the appraisal. The lender begins processing your loan and collecting documents for underwriting. Be prepared to provide financial paperwork like bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns.
  • Day 15–25: Preparing to Move – Schedule movers, request time off work, plan for child and pet care for closing/moving day, if needed. Transfer utilities into your name. Set up service providers like internet, lawn care, pest control, security, etc.
  • Day 15–30: Loan Processing and Appraisal – The appraisal is completed and reviewed. Choose your homeowner’s insurance, home service contract (if this was negotiated), and submit to title/your lender. If applicable, the HOA resale certificate and documents are delivered for review within the required timeframe. Survey and T-47 are reviewed by title and the lender. Continue submitting any documents your lender requests.
  • Day 25–30: Conditional Loan Approval – Your file is reviewed by the underwriter. Any conditions (like updated statements or letters of explanation) are submitted and cleared. Your lender issues the Closing Disclosure at least three days before closing. Transfer funds between accounts, to prepare for sending funds to title for closing. If closing on new construction, your blue tape walkthrough will typically be about a week before closing.
  • Day 30–45: Final Week – Once final approval is given, your lender issues the Clear to Close. You’ll complete your final walk-through of the home, usually 24 to 48 hours before closing. Make sure you’ve arranged for your closing funds (typically by wire transfer), have your ID ready, and know when and where you’ll be signing. Closing happens at the title company or with a mobile notary. Once the loan funds are received, the home is officially yours, and you receive the keys.
  • After Closing: What to Take Care Of – Update your mailing address with USPS and the Texas DMV. For both, you’ll typically need a copy of your deed, which shows your name and new address. This document is usually accepted as proof of residency. File for your Homestead Exemption if the home is your primary residence. Keep your deed and closing documents in a safe place. Update your mailing address with any banks, subscriptions, services, and important contacts.

Step 6: Closing Day
Once the lender gives the clear-to-close and title is ready, you’ll sign the final documents either in person or online. When funding is confirmed, the home is officially yours. We’ll be there with a smile, a hug (if you're a hugger), and maybe a welcome gift or two.

Step 7: After You Close
Even after the keys are in your hand, we’re still here. Some of the things we’ll help you remember: set up utilities, file for your homestead exemption, get connected with handypeople, cleaners, or contractors, and keep in the loop with local events, home tips, and invites from us. You're part of our community now, and we truly mean that.

Final Thoughts
Buying a home isn’t just a transaction. It’s a big life moment, and it deserves care, patience, and a team that really listens. If you're even thinking about taking that first step, we’d love to hear what’s on your mind. No pressure. Just a real conversation about what might come next.

Ready when you are.
– Gina and Jorge, Your Dueñas Realty Group Team

 

This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Timelines, requirements, and processes can vary depending on your specific transaction, lender, and contract terms. Always consult directly with your licensed real estate agent, lender, and escrow/title team for guidance tailored to your situation. Dueñas Realty Group and our broker are not liable for decisions made based on the information provided here.

We're here to support and guide you, but every transaction is unique, it's always best to reach out with questions and for tailored advice.

Work With Us

Dueñas Realty Group is dedicated to helping you find your dream home and assisting with any selling needs you may have. Contact us today to start your home-searching journey!

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