If you’re buying a house, finding a property and making an offer are just the first steps. But before you can start moving and hanging the family photos, you’ll have to go through closing, a complex process that finalizes the transaction. As complicated as closing on real estate can be, however, there are a few things you can do to help ensure everything goes smoothly.

4 Ways to Achieve a Smooth Real Estate Closing

1. Get Pre-Approved

Having a pre-approval letter from a reputable lender will not only let sellers know you’re serious about your offer, but it can also prevent unexpected delays. Lining up financing is often the most difficult, labor-intensive parts of buying a house, so taking care of it in advance will help ensure you can close on time.

2. Be Honest About Your Credit History

You might try to hide negative items on your credit report, but they’ll more than likely be discovered eventually. When dealing with your lender, being honest will help you avoid hiccups that could lead to a delayed or denied application.

3. Stay on Top of the Title Report

Before closing, the title company or a real estate attorney will perform a title search to make sure no one else has a claim on the property. If any issues with the title arise, staying in touch with your title company or lawyer can help ensure they get taken care of as quickly as possible.

4. Don’t Change Your Credit

Even if you’ve already been approved for a loan, don’t do anything that can alter your credit rating until you’ve closed on the property, and the title is in your hands. Some things you should refrain from doing include changing jobs, transferring large amounts of money, or opening any new charge accounts.

Since 1993, Cheri Long, owner of Priority Properties, Inc. has been helping homebuyers throughout the Denver metro area find the home of their dreams. If you’re looking for a home, this experienced real estate agent can help make the process as easy as possible. Visit her website to learn more about how she can help, follow her Facebook for more tips and advice, or call (303) 263-2072 to discuss your homebuying dreams today.