How long does it take to buy a home from start to finish?
A Step-By-Step Timeline for Today’s Buyers
If you’re dreaming of owning a home, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is: “How long will the process actually take?”
While every buyer’s journey is unique, most home purchases fall within a predictable timeline, usually 30 to 90 days from the moment you get serious about buying to the day you get your keys.
In this Real Estate Digest, we’re breaking down the entire process so you know exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and what can speed things up (or cause delays).
1. Getting Pre-Approved (1–5 Days)
Your home-buying timeline starts with your lender.
A pre-approval verifies your income, credit, debts, and assets so you know exactly what you can afford.
Why this matters:
A strong pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re serious—and in today’s market, that can make or break an offer.
What speeds it up:
Having your documents ready (W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, ID, pay stubs).
2. Home Shopping (2 Weeks to 3 Months)
This is the most flexible part of the timeline because it depends on:
Your local market competitiveness
Your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
How quickly inventory moves
How available you are to tour homes
Some buyers find “the one” on Day 1. Others take a few months of searching. Both are normal!
Pro tip:
Make your priorities list early - this helps you avoid decision fatigue or settling for the wrong home.
3. Making an Offer (1–3 Days)
Once you’ve found the right home, your agent will help you
Determine the best offer price
Add contingencies
Negotiate terms
Sellers typically respond within 24–72 hours, though it can be quicker in a hot market.
Possible delays:
Multiple-offer situations, counteroffers, waiting on seller responses.
4. Under Contract to Close (30–45 Days)
This is where the real work happens. After your offer is accepted, the average closing timeline is about 30–45 days depending on the loan type (conventional, FHA, VA, etc.).
Key milestones during this phase:
Home Inspection (5–10 Days)
You’ll hire an inspector to review the home’s condition.
Negotiations for repairs or credits may follow.
Appraisal (1–2 Weeks)
The lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value.
Loan Processing + Underwriting (2–4 Weeks)
This is the most time-sensitive part of the process.
The lender verifies documents, employment, income, and the property details.
Title + Closing Prep (1–2 Weeks)
Your title company handles legal checks, liens, and prepares your closing documents.
5. Closing Day (1–2 Hours)
This is the best part - the finish line!
You’ll sign paperwork, receive your keys, and become the official owner of your new home.
Total Estimated Timeline: 30–90 Days
Most buyers fall into one of these categories:
Quick Closers: Pre-approved + decisive + flexible on inventory → ~30–45 days
Average Buyers: Need time to shop + moderate inventory → ~60 days
Longer Timelines: Competitive markets or tight criteria → ~90 days or more
What Causes Delays?
To keep your timeline on track, watch out for:
Slow document submission
Changing jobs or large financial changes mid-process
Repairs or appraisal issues
Title complications
Market competition
A good agent will guide you through each step, helping you avoid common roadblocks.
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make - emotionally, financially, and logistically. But with the right preparation and the right real estate team, the process can be smooth, clear, and quicker than you expect.
Whether you’re ready to start tomorrow or planning ahead for next season, understanding the timeline empowers you to move with confidence.