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In this blog, I’ll give you a detailed perspective on how long it may take to move into your new construction home after closing. If you’re feeling antsy and wondering why it takes so long or how you can speed things up, this blog is for you.

What Is the Closing Process?

Closing is the final step in a home-buying transaction. During this process, all outstanding fees listed in the closing documents are paid, escrow funds are cleared for delivery to the seller, and both parties sign documents that transfer ownership. Ideally, you can move in immediately after closing, but there are a few factors that may delay the process. Let’s discuss them in more detail.

How Immediate Move-In Works

In an ideal scenario, after closing, all paperwork is signed, money has been transferred, and the construction is fully complete. No punch list items remain, and there are no pending permits or inspections from the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). You receive the keys and move in right away. This is how it should work—but unfortunately, it doesn’t always go this smoothly.

The Purpose of a Final Walkthrough

Before moving in, a final walkthrough is typically conducted to ensure that everything agreed upon between the buyer, seller, and contractors is 100% complete. If any corrective items are discovered during the walkthrough, the process of closing out construction and moving in could be extended.

What Happens During the Final Inspection?

Before moving into new construction, all permit requirements and life safety codes must be met. Any pending permits, changes, or requirements from inspectors can delay your move-in date. Keeping track of the status of permits, inspections, and final sign-offs is crucial to preventing unexpected delays.

How the Punch List Might Delay the Closing Process

The punch list includes final touch-ups like paint jobs or minor repairs that need to be completed before the building is considered fully finished. Sometimes, the city may sign off on the building for code compliance, but you, as the client, might still have aesthetic requests that require attention. If punch list items are extensive, this could delay your move-in.

Important Reminder Before Demobilizing Contractors

It’s essential to address punch list items before your contractor demobilizes. If everything has been signed off and the contractor leaves the site, you might be stuck waiting for them to return and fix minor issues, which could prolong your move-in timeline. This delay can affect not only your move but also your movers and any other plans you’ve set in motion.

What to Understand About Utility Connections

You can’t move in without basic utilities like gas, power, water, and communications. In some cases, transferring utilities from one property to another can be done quickly, but if new connections are required, there may be delays. Ensuring that all services are up and running before your move is vital to avoid complications.

How to Prepare for Moving In

Whether you’re using a moving company or doing it yourself, movers typically require advance notice to be scheduled. My advice is to communicate with the seller, be realistic about potential delays, and consider having a buffer between closing and your move-in date. For instance, if you anticipate being ready to move in on the 13th but some punch list items are pending, consider scheduling your move-in for the 16th or later. This buffer will increase your certainty and help you avoid unnecessary stress.

Usual Timeframes for the Closing & Move-In Process

Here are some typical timeframes for moving in after closing:
  • Same Day/Next Day: This is the ideal scenario, where there are no issues with closing or inspections.
  • A Few Days to a Week: This is common if there are minor issues with the closing process, such as final inspections or punch list items.
  • Up to Two Weeks: Delays in final inspections, utility hookups, or significant punch list work may extend the timeline further.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!