Things to Know Before You Buy a Home: Part 10 – From Offer to Keys in Hand (The Final Steps)

You’ve made it to the finish line! After navigating contingencies like home inspection, appraisal, and HOA documents (if buying a townhome or condo), most of the heavy lifting is done. Now it’s about finalizing details and closing smoothly so you can get the keys to your new home in the Minneapolis Saint Paul metro area (Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, and the south metro).Here’s what happens behind the scenes in the final stretch—and why having an experienced agent matters. The Final Stages of Closing

Loan Final Approval (Underwriting)
- Your loan officer submits the full package to underwriting.
- The underwriter reviews everything again—credit, income, assets, debt-to-income ratio.
- They may request additional documents: updated bank statements, pay stubs, employment verification letter, etc.
- Tip: Respond quickly and completely—delays here can push back closing.
Title & Closing Prep
- The title company pulls title work, checks for liens, prepares closing documents.
- They coordinate with the seller’s closer and ensure everything is clear for transfer.
- Your agent stays in constant contact with the title team to confirm all is on track.
Final Walkthrough
- Usually 24–48 hours before closing.
- You (and your agent) walk through the home one last time to confirm:
  - It’s in the same condition as when you made the offer.
  - Agreed-upon repairs have been completed (seller provides receipts/invoices).
  - No new damage or issues.
- This is your last chance to catch problems before signing.
Closing Day
- Sign all documents (loan docs, deed, settlement statement).
- Funds are transferred.
- You receive the keys!

Why You Need an Agent Who Stays Involved

Throughout this phase, I’m:

Checking in with you to answer questions and ease stress.
Following up with the loan officer and title company.
Verifying repair receipts and lien releases (to protect your title).
Coordinating the final walkthrough and closing logistics.

A disorganized or hands-off agent can cause delays, missed deadlines, or costly surprises. The best agents treat closing like a partnership—keeping everything on track so you walk away with the keys, not headaches.

The Bottom Line

From offer to keys in hand is a critical phase. With the right team (loan officer, agent, title company), it’s smooth and stress-free. Skipping preparation or working with an agent who doesn’t stay involved risks delays, higher costs, or lost deals.

If you’re ready to buy a home in Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Burnsville, Bloomington, or the south metro, let’s talk. As a real estate agent in Lakeville MN with over 20 years of experience guiding buyers through every step of the Minnesota home buying process, I’ll make sure your closing is seamless and you get the keys to your new home on time.

Ready to go from offer to keys in 2026? Text or call me today, Tom Sommers with Coldwell Banker Realty, for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s make your home purchase smooth and successful.