How long does it take to close on a house in Texas?

It is the date the last party signs the contract. Many deadlines, including the option period and earnest money, are counted from this date.

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.

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.

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.