House Hunting
Execute Your Contract & Prepare for the Mortgage Process
Once your offer is accepted, there are several important steps to keep your home purchase moving toward closing. You’ll need to coordinate with your real estate agent, mortgage lender, insurance provider, and other professionals involved in the transaction.
Taking care of these tasks early can help you stay organized, meet contract deadlines, and reduce the risk of last-minute delays.
Send Your Signed Contract
Send a copy of your fully signed purchase contract to your mortgage lender as soon as possible. Don’t assume your real estate agent has sent it—confirm your lender has received it.
Your lender uses the contract to review the purchase price, closing date, and other details needed to move your loan forward. Providing it promptly allows more time to prepare disclosures and address potential issues.
Interest rates can change daily, so ask your lender about rate-lock options, timing, and any associated costs.
Learn more about the Mortgage Loan Process.
Send Updated Financial Documents
Even if you’ve been pre-approved, your lender may need updated pay stubs, bank statements, or other documents to verify your finances. Requirements vary by borrower and loan program, so ask which documents are needed and how recent they must be.
Submit requested documents promptly to help avoid delays later in the process. Keeping your financial paperwork organized now can save time when you’re also managing inspections and planning your move.
Use our Mortgage Document Checklist to help you prepare.
Arrange Homeowners Insurance
Start comparing homeowners insurance policies once you have a home under contract. Your lender will generally require appropriate coverage before closing, and delays in securing a policy can affect your timeline.
Compare coverage, deductibles, and premiums, and ask your insurance provider when the policy can take effect. Coordinate with your lender to make sure the required insurance information is submitted on time.
Keep Track of Deadlines
Review your contract deadlines with your real estate agent, including inspection periods, earnest money, and other requirements. Schedule inspections promptly and make sure you understand what actions are required and when.
Learn more about Home Inspections and Option Fees and Earnest Money.
Keep Your Finances Stable
As your loan moves forward, avoid major financial changes—such as taking on new debt, changing jobs, or making large unexplained deposits—without first discussing the potential impact with your lender.
Respond promptly to requests and let your lender know if your financial circumstances change. For more guidance, review our Do’s and Don’ts When Getting a Mortgage page.