Once your offer is accepted, the clock starts on a roughly 30-to-45-day countdown to closing. In New York, that window is shaped by attorneys, inspectors, appraisers, and lenders – each with their own deadlines. Here is what actually happens, and when.
Week one: attorney review and inspection
New York is an attorney state, which is a feature, not a bug. Your real estate attorney reviews the contract, negotiates any attorney-approval contingencies, and orders the title search. The home inspection usually happens here too – and the findings can reopen price or repair conversations.
Weeks two through four: appraisal and loan clearance
Your lender orders the appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the loan. Meanwhile, you are clearing underwriting conditions: income docs, asset statements, and the occasional explanation letter. This is the stretch where slow responses cost days, so respond to your lender the same day, every time.
Final week: clear to close and walkthrough
Once you are ‘clear to close,’ your lender issues the Closing Disclosure and a three-day clock runs before signing. A final walkthrough confirms the home is in the agreed condition. Then you sign, fund, and get the keys. Knowing the rhythm ahead of time is the single biggest stress-reducer in the whole process.
