1. Offer accepted
Your signed contract goes to the lender, and the clock starts on your loan timeline.
2. Checking the value
An independent appraiser confirms the home's value, so the loan lines up with what the home is worth.
3. Clearing the title
The title search makes sure ownership is clear and there are no surprise liens on the home.
4. Coverage, lined up early
In Florida, homeowners insurance, and possibly flood or wind coverage, gets lined up early.
5. Clear to close
When underwriting signs off, you get your Closing Disclosure. Federal rules say you must receive it at least 3 business days before closing, so you have time to review it and ask questions.
The rule behind the 3 days
Under the federal TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure rule, the lender must make sure you receive your Closing Disclosure no later than three business days before closing (12 CFR 1026.19(f)(1)(ii)(A)). If certain things change after that (the APR becomes inaccurate, the loan product changes, or a prepayment penalty is added), a corrected Closing Disclosure starts a new three-business-day wait. Other changes can be shown on a corrected Closing Disclosure at or before closing.
Checked October 16, 2026. Sources: CFPB: When do I get a Closing Disclosure? · CFPB TRID FAQs
Next steps
- See what you can afford, with Florida taxes and insurance
- Read this week's market note
- Tell me about your plans (about a minute)
General information, not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines, property eligibility and program availability.
