If you’ve made it through the inspection, underwriting, and appraisal stages—congratulations! You’re in the home stretch of your real estate journey. But even after a real estate appraisal is completed, many buyers and sellers are left asking: how much longer until we close the deal?

The truth is, while you’re close to the finish line, a few crucial steps remain. The time between an appraisal and closing is typically one to two weeks, assuming everything goes smoothly. However, the timeline can vary based on multiple factors—including the outcome of the appraisal, loan type, lender processes, and how prepared both parties are.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the closing timeline after an appraisal, what delays to watch for, and how to speed things up for a smooth transition to closing day.

Why Does the Appraisal Matter in Closing?

Before we dive into the timeline, let’s take a quick step back. A real estate appraisal is ordered by the lender to ensure the home is worth the amount they’re lending. It provides an unbiased valuation of the home and protects both the lender and the buyer from overpaying.

If the appraisal comes in at or above the offer price, the process moves forward. If it comes in lower, it can complicate or delay things significantly, especially if negotiations are needed or the loan amount must be adjusted.

General Timeline: How Long After Appraisal to Close?

Let’s look at a typical timeline for closing after the appraisal is completed:

⏱ Estimated Total Time: 7 to 10 business days after appraisal

What Happens After the Appraisal Is Done?

Here’s a step-by-step guide of what to expect after the appraiser sends in their report:

1. Appraisal Review by the Lender

Once the real estate appraisal report is submitted, the lender’s underwriting department reviews it to ensure it supports the loan amount. If the value meets or exceeds the purchase price, the file typically moves to final approval.

2. Final Underwriting Conditions

Even if the appraisal checks out, the underwriter may request additional documentation—like updated pay stubs, bank statements, or verification of employment. Responding to these quickly can help avoid delays.

3. Clear to Close

After all documents and conditions are reviewed and approved, the lender issues a “Clear to Close”—a green light signaling that everything is ready for closing.

4. Delivery of the Closing Disclosure

The Closing Disclosure (CD) outlines the final loan terms, monthly payments, closing costs, and amount due at signing. Federal law requires that buyers receive this at least three business days before closing.

5. Final Walkthrough

Typically scheduled 24–48 hours before closing, the final walkthrough gives the buyer a chance to verify that the home is in the agreed-upon condition and that any requested repairs have been completed.

What If the Appraisal Comes in Low?

If the appraised value is lower than the agreed purchase price, the process may be delayed as the buyer and seller negotiate a solution. Common outcomes include:

• The buyer covering the difference in cash

• The seller lowering the price

• Both parties meeting in the middle

• The buyer requesting a second appraisal or appealing the first

• The buyer exiting the deal if there’s an appraisal contingency

These negotiations can add 5–14+ days to the timeline depending on how quickly an agreement is reached.

How Loan Type Impacts the Closing Speed

Different types of loans come with different processing timelines:

Government-backed loans (FHA, VA, USDA) often require extra documentation or appraisal addendums, which can slow down the process slightly.

Common Causes of Delays After Appraisal

Even when the appraisal goes smoothly, these common issues can stall closing:

❗ Outstanding Conditions

Last-minute underwriting requests for additional documentation can hold up the process.

🏦 Large Financial Changes

New debts, large bank transfers, or employment changes can trigger a full re-review of your financials.

🧾 Repair Verification

If the appraisal was subject to certain repairs being completed, the appraiser may need to return to confirm them before final approval.

📅 Scheduling Conflicts

Getting all parties—buyers, sellers, agents, lenders, title officers—to coordinate a closing date can sometimes add a few extra days.

How to Speed Up Closing After Appraisal

Want to close sooner? These proactive steps help ensure a faster path to the finish line:

• ✅ Respond to Lender Requests Promptly
  Upload documents and e-sign forms as soon as possible.

• ✅ Avoid Opening New Credit
  No new credit cards, car loans, or large purchases until after closing.

• ✅ Prepare for the Walkthrough
  Confirm all agreed-upon repairs are complete. Sellers should leave the home clean and move-in ready.

• ✅ Wire Closing Funds Early
  Make sure your bank is ready to wire the funds before closing day.

• ✅ Confirm IDs and Documents
  Bring proper identification and any required paperwork to closing.

Final Countdown: What to Expect at Closing

On closing day, you’ll meet with a title agent, attorney, or notary to sign final documents. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Review and sign the mortgage documents

2. Transfer closing funds via wire

3. Seller signs title transfer and receives proceeds

4. Buyer receives the keys (and the house!)

Expect this process to take 1 to 2 hours. Once everything is signed and recorded, the deal is officially done.

Conclusion

While the real estate appraisal is a big milestone in the home-buying process, it’s not the end. Typically, you can expect to close within 7 to 10 business days after the appraisal—assuming there are no complications with value, underwriting, or scheduling.

By staying responsive, organized, and financially stable during this final stretch, you’ll keep the process on track and get to closing day with confidence.

Start from the Top?

If you’re just beginning your home-buying or selling journey, don’t miss Blog #1 in this series:
👉 What is an appraisal in real estate?