You’ve found your home, made an offer, completed inspections, and secured financing—now it’s time to close. The closing process is the final and most exciting step in your Dayton home purchase. Here’s what you can expect on closing day in the Miami Valley, along with key terms and tips to help you feel prepared.

What Is Closing?

Closing is the final step in a real estate transaction where ownership officially transfers from the seller to the buyer. It involves signing legal documents, finalizing loan paperwork, and receiving the keys to your new home.

Who Attends the Closing?

Depending on local practices and the terms of your transaction, the following people may attend:

• You (the buyer)

• Your real estate agent

• The seller

• The seller’s agent

• A closing agent or attorney

• A representative from your lender

• A title company representative

What Is a Closing Disclosure?

A Closing Disclosure is a standardized form your lender provides at least three business days before closing. It outlines your final loan terms, monthly payments, and all closing costs. It’s critical to compare this with your Loan Estimate to ensure everything matches.

What Is the Final Walkthrough?

Typically scheduled within 24 to 48 hours before closing, the final walkthrough allows you to verify that the property’s condition hasn’t changed since the inspection and that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.

What Happens on Closing Day?

Here’s a typical closing timeline in Ohio:

1. Identity verification: You’ll need to bring a valid photo ID

2. Document review and signing: Includes the mortgage note, deed of trust, closing disclosure, and settlement statement

3. Fund disbursement: The lender wires the loan funds to the title company

4. Payment of closing costs: You’ll pay any required funds via wire transfer or certified check

5. Title transfer: The title company records the deed and transfers ownership to you

6. Keys in hand: Once everything is signed and recorded, you’ll receive the keys to your new home

Common Closing Costs in Ohio

• Loan origination fees

• Appraisal fee

• Title insurance

• Recording fees

• Prepaid property taxes and insurance

• Attorney or closing agent fees

• Transfer taxes (where applicable)

Pro Tips for a Smooth Closing

• Review your Closing Disclosure carefully and ask questions in advance

• Schedule your final walkthrough early enough to address last-minute issues

• Confirm wiring instructions directly with the title company—beware of phishing scams

• Bring two forms of ID

• Don’t open new credit accounts or change jobs before closing

When Do I Get the Keys?

In most cases, you’ll receive the keys once the title company has recorded the deed with Montgomery County. This often happens on the same day as signing, but in some cases may be delayed until funds clear or documents are recorded.

What If There Are Delays?

Closing delays can occur due to issues with financing, missing documents, title problems, or last-minute repairs. Stay in touch with your agent, lender, and title company to avoid surprises.

Ready to Close on Your Dayton Home?

Whether it’s your first home or your fifth, I’m here to guide you through the closing process and ensure everything goes smoothly. I work closely with trusted title companies and lenders in the Dayton and Miami Valley area to make sure your final steps are stress-free.

Contact Claire Dunn Real Estate today to get expert guidance from contract to closing.