Clear to Close
The green light from your lender that your mortgage is fully approved
"Clear to Close" is the final mortgage approval from your lender. It means all conditions have been satisfied, your loan is fully approved, and the lender is ready to fund. This is a major milestone—you're almost at the finish line.
What "Clear to Close" Means
Final Approval
Your mortgage application has passed all underwriting requirements and conditions
Documents Verified
All your financial documents, employment, and credit have been fully verified
Funds Ready
The lender is prepared to fund your loan at closing
Common Conditions Before Clear to Close
- Final verification of employment (VOE) - lender calls your employer
- Updated pay stubs if requested
- Explanation letters for any credit inquiries
- Proof of homeowner's insurance
- Title insurance commitment
- Final appraisal review
- Any outstanding document requests
After You're Clear to Close
Closing Disclosure
You'll receive the Closing Disclosure (CD) at least 3 business days before closing
Final Numbers
Review your exact closing costs, monthly payment, and cash needed to close
Wire Instructions
You'll receive secure wire transfer instructions for your closing funds
Don't Jeopardize Your Closing
Even after receiving clear to close, your lender may do a final credit check before funding. Avoid:
- • Making large purchases or opening new credit accounts
- • Changing jobs or employment status
- • Moving large sums of money between accounts
- • Co-signing loans for others
Typical Timeline
After receiving clear to close, you'll typically close within 3-7 business days. The 3-day minimum is required by law to give you time to review the Closing Disclosure. Stay in close contact with your lender and be responsive to any last-minute requests.