Final Walkthroughs and Escrow in Central California: What Happens Before You Get the Keys

Final Walkthroughs and Escrow in Central California: What Happens Before You Get the Keys

You’re almost there—the finish line is in sight. But before you receive the keys to your new Central California home, there are two final and crucial steps: the final walkthrough and the escrow process. This stage ensures that everything agreed upon in your contract has been completed properly and legally.

Let’s walk through exactly what happens, what to expect, and how to avoid common hiccups.

✅ What Is a Final Walkthrough?

The final walkthrough is your last chance to inspect the home—usually scheduled 24 to 72 hours before closing. It’s not a time to renegotiate, but a moment to confirm that:

• Repairs agreed to in writing have been completed

• Appliances and fixtures are still present

• There’s been no new damage

• The property is clean and vacant

Refer back to Touring Homes in Central California: What to Look For and Questions to Ask to remind yourself what you originally saw—and compare.

Bring your contract, inspection report, and repair receipts to the walkthrough so you can verify everything.

🏡 What Is Escrow?

In California, escrow is a neutral third party that holds funds and documents until all conditions of the sale are met. Once the final walkthrough is approved, escrow handles:

• Title transfer

• Loan fund disbursement

• Paying closing costs and commissions

• Recording the deed with the county

• Distributing keys

Want to understand more about closing costs? Check out Understanding Closing Costs in Central California.

📄 What Can Go Wrong—and How to Avoid It

• Unfinished repairs: This is why we always verify during the final walkthrough.

• Title issues: These are usually caught earlier in escrow through a title search.

• Funding delays: Your lender may have last-minute conditions. Keep communication open.

Want to be prepared for surprises? NerdWallet offers a helpful homebuying checklist to stay on track.

🔑 When Do You Get the Keys?

Once all funds are received, documents signed, and the deed recorded (usually within 1–2 days of signing), you officially own your home and get the keys!

If you’re not sure when that will happen, your real estate agent will coordinate the exact handoff time.

Final Thoughts

The final walkthrough and escrow process in Central California mark the last leg of your homebuying journey. With attention to detail and the right support, you’ll glide into homeownership with confidence.

Have questions about this stage or want help navigating it? Reach out here, and I’ll walk you through everything before you close.