How Long After Closing Can You Move into New Construction?

In this blog, we’ll dive into the timeline for moving into a newly constructed home after closing. Whether you’re eager to settle in or curious about the factors that might delay your move-in, we’ve got you covered with insights on what to expect and how to streamline the process.

What Is the Closing Process?

Closing is the final step in the home-buying process. During closing, all outstanding fees are paid, escrow funds are cleared, and the buyer and seller sign the necessary documents to transfer ownership. Typically, you can move in immediately after closing, but several factors might influence this timeline.

How Does an Immediate Move-In Work?

An immediate move-in happens when the closing process is complete, all paperwork is signed, money has been transferred, and construction is finalized with no outstanding items on the punch list. If there are no pending permits or issues with the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction), you’ll receive the keys and can move in right away. However, this ideal scenario doesn’t always align with reality. Let’s explore why.

The Purpose of a Final Walkthrough

A final walkthrough is conducted to ensure that everything agreed upon between the buyer, seller, and contractor has been completed. If there are any items that need correction, this could extend the closing process and delay your move-in date.

What Happens During the Final Inspection?

Before you can move in, the building must pass a final inspection, confirming that all permit and life safety requirements are met, and everything is up to code. Delays in obtaining permits, making last-minute changes, or waiting on final sign-offs can affect your move-in schedule.

How the Punch List Might Delay the Closing Process

Punch list items, such as touch-up paint or minor repairs, need to be addressed before the building is officially signed off. Sometimes, the city or AHJ might approve the building from a code compliance and life safety perspective, but the buyer might still require aesthetic changes. The extent of these punch list items could delay your move-in and closing process.

Important Reminder Before Demobilizing Contractors

Ensure that all punch list items are completed before the contractor demobilizes. If you wait until after demobilization, you could be stuck waiting for weeks, delaying your move-in, affecting movers, and disrupting your entire moving process. It’s crucial to address these items as soon as possible.

What to Understand About Utility Connections

You can’t move into your new home without utilities such as gas, power, water, and communications. While transferring existing services is usually quick, new hookups can take longer. It’s important to ensure that your new home is fully commissioned and operational with all necessary services before moving in.

How to Prepare for Moving In

Scheduling movers and coordinating the initiation of services requires careful planning. It’s wise to build in a buffer between your closing date and move-in date to account for any unforeseen delays. If you anticipate moving in on the 13th but face delays with punch list items or service setups, consider scheduling your move-in for a later date, such as the 16th or 18th, to avoid last-minute complications.

Usual Time Frames for the Closing & Move-In Process

Here are some typical timelines you can expect:

• Same Day or Next Day: This is the ideal scenario when there are no issues with closing or final inspections.
• A Few Days or a Week: Minor delays due to final inspections, punch list items, or utility setups can extend the process by a few days or up to a week.
• A Week or Two: In cases with more complex issues, such as holidays, vacations, or construction delays, your move-in could be pushed back by a week or two.

Important Reminders for the Closing & Move-In Process

Understand the components of the closing process, ask lots of questions, and develop a strategic plan that accounts for potential delays. It’s crucial to be methodical, use this blog as a guide, and be proactive throughout the entire process.