Getting an offer accepted feels like the finish line, but it is really the start of a series of deadlines. In Texas, the contract sets a clock that runs from the day it is fully signed, and missing a step can cost you money or the deal. This guide walks through the typical path from accepted offer to getting the keys, in the order things usually happen. Your contract controls the real dates, so use this as a map and keep a copy of your own deadlines. Closings commonly take about 30 to 45 days, though cash deals and new construction can look different.
DAY ONE
The Effective Date Starts the Clock
The effective date is the day the last party signs the contract, and most deadlines count from it. Keep a calendar with every date in the contract, because many of them are measured in days from the effective date. If you are not sure when one falls, ask rather than guess.
FIRST DAYS
Earnest Money and the Option Fee
Shortly after the effective date, you deliver earnest money to the title company and pay the option fee to the seller. The deadline is set in the contract, so confirm it right away. These payments are what protect and commit you in the early days; see Texas Option Period and Earnest Money for how they work and when each one can be at risk.
THE OPTION PERIOD
Inspection and the Right to Terminate
During the option period you can terminate for any reason, so it is the time to complete your home inspection and decide whether to move forward, negotiate repairs, or walk away. It is short, so book the inspector as soon as the contract is signed. Specialists, such as a foundation engineer, a roofer, or a septic inspector, may need extra scheduling. Any repair requests you make are generally negotiated before the option period ends, and the agreement should be put in writing as an amendment.
THE LOAN
Underwriting and the Appraisal
If you are financing, the lender orders an appraisal and underwrites the loan during this period. Respond quickly to document requests and avoid changing jobs, opening new credit, or making large unexplained deposits. If the appraisal comes in below the price, you have options; see What Happens If the Appraisal Comes In Low. Your financing deadlines are set in the contract, so ask your lender how they line up with your closing date.
TITLE AND SURVEY
Title Commitment, Survey, and Objections
The title company researches ownership and liens and issues a title commitment, and a survey shows the boundaries and improvements on the lot. You get a limited window to review these and object to anything unacceptable. Read them rather than letting them pile up. Our guide to title insurance and surveys in Texas explains what to look for and who usually pays.
BEFORE CLOSING
Insurance, Utilities, and Your Closing Costs
A homeowners policy must be in place before closing, and flood insurance may be required in some areas; see Home Insurance in Texas and the flood zone guide. Lenders issue a Closing Disclosure that itemizes your costs, and you should compare it with your earlier estimate; our closing costs guide explains each line. Set up utilities in your name for the closing or possession date, and plan how you will bring your funds, typically by wire or cashier's check, as your title company instructs.
- Confirm wire instructions by phone using a number you trust, since wire fraud targets homebuyers
- Schedule utilities and your move around the closing and possession dates
- Review the Closing Disclosure carefully and ask about any differences from your estimate
THE FINAL STRETCH
Final Walk-Through and Closing Day
Within a day or two before closing, you walk through the home to confirm it is in the agreed condition and that any negotiated repairs were done. If something is wrong, raise it before you sign. At closing you sign the loan and title documents, funds are disbursed, and the deed is recorded. Possession is set by the contract, and it often happens at closing and funding, though the contract may say otherwise. You then receive the keys.
NEXT STEP
Know Your Dates Before You Write the Offer
Every part of this timeline can be negotiated up front, from the length of the option period to the closing date. Todd Spencer builds a deadline calendar for each client at the start so nothing sneaks up. Start with the buyer's guide, and if you want to understand the offer side first, read How to Make a Winning Offer.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions.
How long does it take to close on a house in Texas?
Financed purchases commonly close in about 30 to 45 days from the effective date, though the contract sets the actual closing date. Cash purchases can be faster, and new construction can take longer.
What is the effective date in a Texas contract?
It is the date the last party signs the contract. Many deadlines, including the option period and earnest money, are counted from this date.
When do I pay earnest money?
The contract sets a deadline, usually a few days after the effective date, to deliver earnest money to the title company. Confirm the exact date in your contract and meet it, since missing it can put you in default.
Can I back out after the option period ends?
After the option period, you generally can no longer terminate for any reason. You may still be able to terminate under specific contract provisions, such as a financing or appraisal contingency, so review your contract and ask before you act.
What is the final walk-through?
It is your last look at the home, usually within a day or two before closing, to confirm it is in the agreed condition and any negotiated repairs are complete. Raise any problem before you sign closing documents.
What do I need to bring to closing?
Bring a government-issued photo ID and your closing funds, which are typically sent by wire or cashier's check as your title company instructs. Confirm the details with the title company a few days ahead.
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