They said yes. Now what?
The 30–45 days between "offer accepted" and "here are your keys" is where first-time buyers feel the most in the dark — and where Spencer's weekly updates to you, your agent, and the listing side do the most good. Here's the whole sequence.
The timeline, step by step
Days 1–3: Executed contract & earnest money
Both sides sign, your earnest money is deposited with the title company or brokerage trust (never wired to anyone who emails you new instructions — call to verify wire details every time), and Spencer’s team formally opens the loan.
Days 3–10: Inspection
Your inspector examines the house; you and your agent decide what (if anything) to negotiate. Spencer stays looped in because repair credits can affect loan structure.
Week 1–2: Appraisal ordered
An independent appraiser confirms the home’s value for the lender. If it comes in low, your team has options — renegotiation, gap coverage, or a challenge — and this is exactly the moment the open line between Spencer and the listing agent earns its keep.
Weeks 2–4: Underwriting
The underwriter reviews everything. You may get requests for updated documents or explanations — this is routine, not a red flag. Respond same-day and keep your finances boring: no new debt, no job changes, no giant deposits.
Around week 4: Clear to close 🎉
The magic words. Underwriting is satisfied, the closing is scheduled, and Spencer calls all parties — you, your agent, the listing side — so everyone hears it at once.
3 days before: Closing Disclosure
You receive the final numbers at least three business days before closing by law. Compare it against your earlier Loan Estimate with Spencer, line by line, so closing day has zero surprises.
Closing day: Final walkthrough & keys
Walk the house one last time, sign at the title company, and the keys are yours. First payment is typically due the second month after closing.
Wire fraud warning, because it's real: criminals impersonate title companies and email "updated" wire instructions near closing. Never wire money based on an email alone — call your title company at a number you already have and verify verbally, every single time.
This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations may apply.
Want a lender who narrates the whole ride?
Weekly updates to every party, from offer to keys. That's the standard here.
Applications run entirely on Fairway's secure systems — this site collects nothing.