Getting a clear to close is a major milestone, but the transaction is not finished yet. In this lesson, Cindy walks through what happens between loan approval and a fully closed and funded transaction, including balancing, reviewing closing figures, commission paperwork, and the final steps agents need to watch.
Watch the 10-minute video to see what real estate agents need to know as a transaction moves through the final stages of closing.
Resources Mentioned in This Lessone
Download Your Free Closing Field Guide ⬇️
Click the download box below to save or print your PDF for future reference.
Use the Closing Field Guide as a practical reference for keeping track of the details that need attention as a transaction moves toward closing.
Quick Summary
Clear to close means the lender has completed underwriting and the loan is moving into the final closing process. It does not mean the transaction is finished.
At this stage, real estate agents still need to stay engaged. The closing department may perform additional checks, the lender and closing agent need to balance the final figures, and the closing statement needs to be reviewed carefully. Your brokerage paperwork and distribution authorization should also be complete so your commission can be handled correctly at closing.
Even after documents are signed, the transaction may still need to be reviewed, funded, and disbursed before it is officially complete.
Key Takeaways
- Keep your transaction paperwork current so your distribution authorization can reach the title company or closing attorney before closing.
- Remind buyers not to open new credit, make major purchases, move money between accounts, deposit unexplained large sums, or make other significant financial changes before closing.
- Treat clear to close as an important milestone—not the end of the transaction.
- Review the final closing figures for the contract price, closing date, escrow deposits, negotiated credits, applicable fees, and other important transaction details.
- Make sure your commission is shown correctly on the closing statement.
- Ask the lender, title company, or closing attorney about any charge or figure you do not understand.
- Remember that signing documents and completing the closing are not always the same thing, especially with mail-away closings.
- Confirm that the transaction is closed and funded and obtain the signed closing statement and other documents your brokerage requires to finalize the file.
- Finish the transaction by thanking your clients and continuing the relationship after closing.
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