In a perfect world, the closing date for your new home would be set in stone and everything would go according to plan. Unfortunately, things don't always go as smoothly as we'd like them to, and the seller may want to extend the closing date. If this happens to you, here are a few things you can do to make the process as smooth as possible.  If you're a first-time homebuyer who's about to go through this situation, don't panic! Extending the closing date doesn't have to be stressful if you know how to handle it. Keep reading for some tips on what to do when the seller wants to delay the closing.

What does closing on a house mean?

Closing on a house refers to the process of finalizing a real estate transaction. This usually occurs after the buyer and seller have negotiated the terms of the sale and the buyer has obtained a mortgage or other financing. Once all the paperwork has been completed, the buyer and seller will meet at the closing table, where they will sign the final documents and transfer ownership of the property. The closing process can be complex, so it is important to have an experienced specialist or lawyer to guide you through it.

Why a seller may delay closing?

There are a number of reasons why a seller might cause delays at closing. In some cases, a seller tries to renegotiate the purchase price or terms of the sale. In other cases, a seller may have difficulty with financing or may have second thoughts about selling the property. Additionally, a seller may simply be unprepared or disorganized, which can lead to delays in providing necessary documentation or completing required repairs.  Whatever the reason, it is important to stay calm and keep communication lines open with the seller in order to resolve any issues and avoid further delays.

What to do when a seller wants to extend closing date 

Sometimes, a seller will request a closing date extension, so here are a few things to keep in mind if you find yourself in this situation. 

1. Analyze the situation

It's important to understand why the seller is requesting an extension. Is there a legitimate reason, such as needing more time to make repairs? Or are they simply trying to stall? If it's the latter, you may want to consider walking away from the deal. However, if the seller has a valid reason for requesting an extension, you'll need to decide if you're willing to wait. 

2. Consider your plans

Keep in mind that an extension will likely delay your own plans, so you'll need to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Ultimately, it's up to you whether to agree to an extension. But remember, you always have the right to walk away from the deal if you're not comfortable with it.

3. Get the extension in writing

If you agree to an extension, make sure to get it in writing. This will help to protect you in the event that the seller decides not to close on the new date. If possible, try to negotiate a shorter extension. This will help to minimize the risk of the deal falling through.

4. Review your documents

If you have a loan agreement, you will need to review it to see if an extension is allowed. Some loan agreements do not allow for extensions, so you will need to make sure you are able to get an extension before agreeing to one. You will also need to review your purchase contract to see if an extension is allowed. Most purchase contracts allow for a one-time extension of the closing date.

5. Consider your options

Before agreeing to an extension, you will need to consider all of your options. If the seller is not willing to close on the original date, you may want to consider finding another property. There are many things to consider when making this decision, such as your current financial situation, job security, and the housing market. If you have a good relationship with your real estate agent, they may be able to help you find another property that meets your needs. Ultimately, you will need to make the decision that is best for you and your family.

6. Get professional advice

Real estate attorneys and financial advisors can help you to understand all the implications of extending the closing date, and they can offer guidance on whether it is the right decision for your situation. They can also help you to negotiate with the seller if you do decide to extend the closing date, and they can assist with any other legal or financial issues that may arise. With their help, you can make an informed decision about whether extending the closing date is in your best interests.

7.  Stay calm and flexible

Delays are common when buying a house. The main thing is to stay calm and flexible. If possible, try to get an accurate estimate of how long the repairs will take so that you can make alternative plans. It is also important to stay in communication with the seller so that you are both on the same page. If the delay is due to something out of their control, they may be able to provide some assistance, such as finding temporary accommodation. 

FAQs

What is a seller penalty for delayed closing?

While there is no specific penalty for a seller who does not close on time, it is important to remember that buyers are often under time constraints as well. For example, they may have to move out of their current home by a certain date or may have already made arrangements to start a new job in the area. As a result, it is usually in the best interests of all parties to close on the original date. However, if the seller is unable to do so, the buyer will most likely grant an extension. This is usually the path of least resistance, as it avoids the hassle and expense of finding a new property. In addition, it is important to keep in mind that the real estate market can be unpredictable. Closing on a new property can sometimes take longer than expected, so it is always best to plan for potential delays.

How long does it take to close on a house?

The closing process usually takes between 30 and 45 days. The timeline can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of loan, the state in which the property is located, and the time of year. The first step in the closing process is to complete a loan application and send it to a lender. Once your loan is approved, you'll need to get a home appraisal and submit a purchase contract to the seller. The next step is to schedule a home inspection and obtain homeowners insurance. Once these steps are completed, you'll be ready to close on your new home.

How long can a buyer delay close on a house?

A buyer has to finalize the purchase of a property until the day of closing. However, there are occasionally extenuating circumstances that may cause a delay. For example, if the buyer is obtaining financing from a bank, or if the property is being sold as part of an estate, the closing date may be delayed. In some cases, the parties may agree to extend the closing date if they are unable to meet on the original date. As a result, there is no hard and fast rule for how long a buyer can delay closing on a house. However, it is important to keep in mind that delays can often be costly, so it is best to avoid them if at all possible.

Conclusion

It can be frustrating if a seller wants to extend their closing date, but it doesn't have to throw your entire deal off balance. With a little knowledge of how to handle the situation, you can stay calm and get the fast closing you need. Are you interested in finding a professional and experienced mortgage company to help you with buying a home? Contact LBC Mortgage today!