Most El Paso home purchases close in 30 to 45 days from the moment a contract is signed. That window can feel like an eternity or a blur depending on how prepared you are. Understanding what's happening at each stage — and what you need to do versus what your agent, lender, and title company are handling — reduces anxiety and prevents costly delays.
Days 1–3: Earnest Money and Effective Date
As soon as your offer is accepted, the clock starts on multiple simultaneous obligations. Earnest money must be delivered to the title company (typically within 3 business days under TREC contracts). Your lender will issue a formal loan application, and you'll need to provide updated income documents, bank statements, and sign initial disclosures. The effective date on the contract triggers your option period and all other time-sensitive contingency windows.
Days 3–10: Option Period and Inspections
The Texas option period gives you the unrestricted right to terminate the contract for any reason. Use this time to schedule a licensed home inspector immediately — good El Paso inspectors book up quickly, especially during the spring buying season. You may also want to schedule a separate roof inspection, pool inspection, or pest inspection during this window. Review the inspection reports carefully and negotiate repairs or credits with the seller before the option period expires.
Days 7–14: Loan Processing Begins
Your lender submits your file to underwriting. The property appraisal is ordered — VA and FHA loans require government appraisals with specific timeline requirements. Respond to any underwriting conditions (requests for additional documentation) within 24 hours whenever possible. Delays in responding to the underwriter are the most common cause of closing date pushbacks. Your lender will also order a title search through the title company.
Days 14–25: Appraisal, Title, and Underwriting
The appraisal is completed and reviewed by your lender. If the appraisal comes in at or above purchase price, this step clears smoothly. If it comes in low, you'll need to renegotiate with the seller, pay the gap out-of-pocket, or invoke the appraisal contingency. Simultaneously, the title company conducts the title search, identifies any liens or encumbrances on the property, and prepares the title commitment. Review this document — it discloses all conditions and exceptions to your title insurance.
Days 25–35: Clear to Close
Once underwriting issues a 'clear to close,' the title company prepares the closing disclosure (CD) document showing all final fees and credits. Federal law requires the CD be delivered to you at least 3 business days before closing. Review it carefully and compare it to your loan estimate — most line items should be the same or very close. Do a final walkthrough of the property 24 hours before closing to confirm it is in the agreed-upon condition.
Closing Day
Texas closings take place at the title company's office. Bring a government-issued photo ID and any remaining funds needed at closing (via cashier's check or wire transfer). You'll sign a stack of documents — expect 45–90 minutes. Once all documents are signed and funds are confirmed, the title company records the deed with El Paso County and releases keys. You're a homeowner. ProGen Real Estate (TREC #619091) guides buyers through every step of this process. Call Broker Josue R. Jimenez at (915) 691-1082 if you have questions at any stage.