By The Comiskey Group
We know that once you accept an offer on your home, it can feel like the finish line is in sight — but there are still important steps ahead before the sale is final. The closing process involves careful coordination, legal documents, and a clear timeline to ensure everything moves forward smoothly. That’s where we come in.
Here’s exactly what you need to know to navigate the closing process with confidence and clarity.
Key Takeaways
- Escrow typically takes 30–45 days in San Diego
- Sellers are responsible for disclosures, possible repairs, and timely move-out
- We coordinate inspections, paperwork, and timelines to protect your interests
- Funds are disbursed after the final recording (usually within 24 hours)
Step 1: Offer Accepted — Now What?
Once you accept an offer, escrow is opened, and the official countdown begins. Escrow serves as a neutral third party that manages the contract, funds, and closing paperwork.
What Happens Next
- Escrow is opened, and the buyer deposits their earnest money
- We work with escrow to manage timelines and deliver required forms
- You begin preparing disclosures and any agreed-upon tasks
This step marks the beginning of the legal and logistical part of the sale, and we’re right there with you to make sure nothing is missed.
Step 2: Disclosures and Required Seller Documents
California has strict rules about what sellers must disclose, and San Diego has its own nuances, especially with older homes or coastal properties.
What You'll Need to Provide
- Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS)
- Seller Property Questionnaire (SPQ)
- Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD)
- HOA documents (if applicable)
- Any known material facts that could affect the buyer's decision
We help you complete each document accurately and thoroughly to keep your sale on track and avoid legal issues later.
Step 3: Buyer Inspections and Negotiation
Most buyers will schedule a home inspection within the first 10 days of escrow. Based on the findings, they may request repairs or credits.
What to Expect During This Phase
- Buyer’s home inspector visits the property
- They may request repairs or price adjustments
- We negotiate on your behalf to keep the deal fair and moving forward
In San Diego, it’s common for buyers to request modest repairs or credits, especially in older homes. We guide you through every option to protect your bottom line.
Step 4: Appraisal and Loan Approval
If the buyer is financing, their lender will order an appraisal. This ensures the home’s value supports the loan amount.
How We Help You Prepare
- We coordinate access for the appraiser
- We provide comparable sales to support the value
- If the appraisal is low, we help negotiate a solution
While most San Diego homes appraise at or near the offer price, we stay prepared with a strategy if challenges arise.
Step 5: Repairs, Final Walkthrough, and Move-Out
If repairs were negotiated, they’ll need to be completed and documented before the buyer’s final walkthrough, which typically occurs within a few days of closing.
Your Responsibilities as the Seller
- Complete agreed-upon repairs with receipts when possible
- Ensure the home is clean and empty
- Be ready to move out by the agreed-upon closing date
We’ll help you create a timeline for your move and verify that everything is in place before closing day.
Step 6: Signing Final Paperwork
As the seller, you’ll sign the grant deed and a settlement statement, among other documents. These can typically be signed with a mobile notary or in person.
Documents You'll Sign
- Grant deed to transfer ownership
- Settlement statement showing final numbers
- Escrow and title forms to finalize the sale
We review everything with you and coordinate with escrow so nothing slips through the cracks.
Step 7: Closing Day and Getting Paid
Once escrow receives all signed documents and the buyer’s lender funds the loan, the sale is officially recorded with the San Diego County Recorder’s Office.
Final Steps
- Title transfers to the buyer
- Escrow closes
- Funds are released to your account, typically the same day or next business day
At that point, your sale is complete, and we’ll be celebrating alongside you.
FAQs About the Closing Process for Sellers
How long does the closing process take?
In San Diego, closings typically take 30 to 45 days from the date the offer is accepted, depending on the buyer’s financing and inspections.
Can I stay in the home after closing?
Only if a post-occupancy agreement is negotiated during the sale. Otherwise, you’ll need to move out before or on the day of closing.
How much are sellers’ closing costs?
Most sellers in San Diego can expect to pay around 5–8% of the sale price in closing costs, including agent commissions, escrow fees, title insurance, and transfer taxes.
Contact The Comiskey Group Today
Selling your home is more than just finding a buyer; it’s about closing the deal smoothly and on your terms. At The Comiskey Group, we make sure every step of the closing process is handled with care, communication, and expert attention to detail.
Reach out to us at The Comiskey Group, and we’ll guide you through your sale from accepted offer to final closing, so you can move on with confidence and peace of mind.
Reach out to us at The Comiskey Group, and we’ll guide you through your sale from accepted offer to final closing, so you can move on with confidence and peace of mind.
