Selling Guide · Charleston Metro

Contract-to-Close Timeline for Charleston Sellers: What to Expect Week by Week

Once you accept an offer, a fairly predictable sequence unfolds over the following four to six weeks. Knowing what typically happens each week helps you plan your move, your next purchase, and your own expectations.

Week One: Inspection Period Begins

The buyer typically schedules a home inspection within the first several days under contract, along with any specialized inspections for items like the roof, HVAC, or a pool. Expect to accommodate access for a few hours and be ready to respond to any findings shortly after.

Week Two: Repair Negotiations and Appraisal Ordered

If the inspection turns up issues, this is typically when repair credit or price negotiations happen. Around the same time, the buyer's lender usually orders the appraisal, which will schedule its own site visit.

Week Three: Appraisal Results and Loan Underwriting

The appraisal report typically comes back in this window, and if the value supports the contract price, the loan moves into full underwriting. This is often the quietest week for the seller, but it's also when financing issues, if there are going to be any, tend to surface.

Week Four: Clear to Close and Final Walkthrough

The buyer's loan typically receives final approval, known as “clear to close,” in this window, and the buyer schedules a final walkthrough shortly before closing to confirm the home's condition hasn't changed. This is a good time to have moving logistics largely finalized on your end.

Closing Week: Signing, Funding, and Possession

Closing documents are typically signed a day or more before or on closing day itself, and funds are disbursed once the lender releases them to the closing attorney. Possession usually transfers at closing or shortly after, depending on what was negotiated in the contract.

Under contract on your Charleston-area home and want a clear picture of what's ahead? Contact Chris Eller directly.