How long does a clear to close take?
Rob Miller explains the timeline from 'Clear to Close' to sitting at the closing table, and why our team consistently beats the industry average.
Rob Miller, Branch Manager at MadCity Home Loans, answers one of the most common questions we get from our Realtor partners.
How long does a clear to close take?
If you are a Realtor, "Clear to Close" (CTC) are the three most beautiful words in the English language. But once the underwriter issues the CTC, how long does it actually take to get the keys?
The Final Timeline (3 to 4 Days)
By law (the TRID rule), a borrower must receive their final Closing Disclosure (CD) at least three business days before they can sign the closing paperwork.
This means that if we issue a Clear to Close on a Monday, and we issue the final CD on that same Monday, the absolute earliest the buyer can sign is Thursday.
How We Beat the Clock
Many big banks wait until the file is 100% Cleared to Close before they issue the initial Closing Disclosure. This creates a massive, unnecessary 3-day delay right at the finish line, stressing out the buyer and the sellers.
At MadCity Home Loans, we issue the initial Closing Disclosure while the file is still in underwriting (usually a week before closing). By the time the underwriter officially issues the "Clear to Close," that mandatory 3-day waiting period has already been met.
Because of this proactive strategy, we can often send the final closing package to the title company on the exact same day we get the CTC, allowing you to close immediately.
Related Guide: Want to see our exact timeline for a smooth closing? Check out our 12-Step Mortgage Process.