What to Expect from the Closing Process When Buying a Home

 Posted on August 13, 2025 in Real Estate

Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but the closing process can feel unfamiliar, especially if you have never gone through it before. Closing is the final stage of your purchase, where ownership of the property officially transfers from the seller to you. Throughout DuPage County, understanding what happens at closing, what you will need to sign, and how much you might have to pay can help you avoid surprises.

As of August 2025, Illinois real estate law continues to require that the transfer of property ownership be documented in writing, with all necessary signatures and properly recorded deeds. Having a local Geneva real estate attorney for first-time homebuyers can ensure that every detail is handled correctly.

What Is the Closing Process?

In Illinois, "closing" refers to the meeting or process where the buyer and seller finalize the sale of a property. It typically takes place at a title company’s office, a law firm, or sometimes remotely via electronic signing. All the necessary documents are reviewed and signed, and funds are exchanged. Once everything is completed, you receive the keys to your new home.

Your attorney plays an important role in reviewing documents, explaining terms, and protecting your legal interests. This includes making sure that the seller can legally transfer ownership, checking that no undisclosed liens exist, and verifying that the closing statement accurately reflects what you agreed to in the contract.

Understanding Your Purchase Contract

The purchase contract (sometimes called the "real estate sales agreement") is the roadmap for your closing. It includes the price you agreed on and how it will be paid, as well as the date and location of closing. The Illinois Residential Real Property Disclosure Act (765 ILCS 77/) requires sellers to tell you about problems with the house, so by the time you reach the closing process, your attorney will know whether to include any contingencies based on those issues in the contract.  You can also include whether certain appliances or fixtures will be part of the sale. 

Before closing, your attorney will review the contract to confirm that all conditions have been met. For example, if the contract requires the seller to make certain repairs, your lawyer will make sure these have been completed or that you receive a credit at closing.

What Closing Costs Should You Expect?

Closing costs are the fees and expenses paid when finalizing a real estate transaction. In DuPage County, these often include:

• Title insurance premiums to protect against defects in ownership history.

• Loan origination fees if you are financing the purchase.

• Appraisal and inspection fees.

• Recording fees to officially file the deed with the county.

• Transfer taxes, which are paid to the local municipality and sometimes the state.

Closing costs typically range from two to five percent of the purchase price, though the exact amount depends on your specific deal. Your attorney will review your final settlement statement to ensure no unnecessary or incorrect charges appear.

What Does a Title Company Do During a Home Closing? 

The title company facilitates the transfer of ownership by holding money in escrow until all closing conditions are met. It also issues the title insurance policy. In Illinois, attorneys work closely with title companies to ensure that the buyer receives a clear title, which means no one else can claim ownership or place liens on the property after the sale.

What Are the Final Steps Before Closing on a Home? 

Before the closing date, your attorney will coordinate a final walk-through with your real estate agent to confirm the property’s condition. On closing day, you will sign the mortgage note (if applicable), deed, settlement statement, and other required documents. Once the money is paid and the deed is recorded, you officially own the home.

Having an experienced Geneva real estate attorney guide you through the process can prevent expensive mistakes, delays, or legal disagreements. With more than 25 years of legal experience, we can make sure every step, from contract review to the moment you get your new keys, is handled with care and attention to detail.

Contact a Geneva, IL Real Estate Lawyer

If you are getting ready to buy a home, we can guide you through the closing process from start to finish. Contact our DuPage County, IL residential real estate attorney at DLAW, PC by calling 331-222-7978 to ensure your home purchase is handled efficiently and with your best interests protected. We enjoy giving each of our clients the personal attention they deserve.