*What to Expect When Selling Your Home: From Contract to Closing

You’ve accepted an offer—now what? While getting under contract is a major milestone, it’s just the beginning of the process that leads to the closing table. Knowing what to expect after the contract is signed can help you avoid surprises and stay one step ahead. 

Here’s a clear breakdown of what happens between contract and closing when you’re selling a home in Louisiana. 

Step 1: Contract Signed 

Once you and the buyer have signed the purchase agreement, it becomes a binding legal contract. From this point forward, timelines begin, and your responsibilities as a seller become active. 

You’ll need to: 

• Provide access to the property for inspections and appraisals 

• Complete any agreed-upon repairs 

• Coordinate with your real estate agent and title company 

  

Step 2: Title Search Begins 

Your title company (like Title Stream) will begin a title search to verify: 

• You are the legal owner 

• There are no unpaid liens, judgments, or issues with prior ownership 

• All property documents are correct and up to date 

If issues are found, they’ll work with you to resolve them before closing. 

Step 3: Home Inspection & Repairs 

The buyer will typically schedule a home inspection within the first 7–10 days of the contract. Based on the results, they may: 

• Request repairs 

• Ask for a price adjustment 

• Move forward with no changes 

• In rare cases, cancel the deal (depending on the inspection contingency) 

Be prepared to negotiate and respond within deadlines outlined in the contract. 

Step 4: Appraisal (If Buyer Is Financing) 

If the buyer is using a mortgage, the lender will order an appraisal. If the home appraises at or above the contract price, you’re good to go. If it appraises lower, you may need to renegotiate or provide additional support for the value. 

  

Step 5: Final Title Work and Documents 

As you approach closing: 

• The title company will prepare the settlement statement 

• You’ll provide final documents (like a mortgage payoff and wiring instructions) 

• You may need to sign a few pre-closing affidavits or disclosures 

Your real estate agent and closing coordinator will help you gather everything in time. 

Step 6: Closing Day 

On closing day: 

• You’ll sign documents transferring ownership 

• The buyer will fund the transaction 

• The deed will be recorded 

• Your mortgage (if any) will be paid off 

• You’ll receive your net proceeds (more on that) 

You may or may not attend in person—remote and mail-away closings are available in many cases. 

Final Thought 

Selling your home involves more than just finding a buyer. The process from contract to closing is detailed—but with the right title team, it’s manageable. 

At Title Stream, we help sellers understand the timeline, clear title issues quickly, and wire proceeds safely and securely. If you’re getting ready to sell, we’re here to support every step of the way.