Buying a home is an exciting milestone, and one of the most common questions is how long the process actually takes. The timeline varies depending on how you choose to finance the purchase, overall market conditions, seasonal influences, and the type of property you’re pursuing. Once an offer is accepted, the closing stage often takes around 30 to 60 days, unless the purchase is completed with cash, which can shorten the timeline significantly.
Below is an overview of what affects the process and what to expect when purchasing with cash, using a mortgage, or pursuing a short sale.
Preparing Before You Begin the Homebuying Process
Preparation is one of the biggest factors influencing how quickly you can move once you start searching. Getting your financial profile in order helps prevent delays later.
Important early steps include:
Reviewing your credit score and credit history
Reducing debts and improving your overall financial strength
Establishing a realistic monthly budget
Saving for a down payment and closing costs
Collecting documents needed for a mortgage application
The down payment amount depends on your financial situation, the loan product you choose, and eligibility for any assistance programs. Many people believe a large down payment is required, but several financing options allow for low or even no down payment. A larger down payment can be helpful because it reduces long-term costs, although it is not required to purchase a home. Closing costs must also be accounted for, which often add up to several percent of the purchase price.
Buying a House With Cash: As Little as Two Weeks
A significant number of homes are purchased with cash, and this route often creates the fastest timeline. Without a lender involved, many steps move more quickly, and the purchase can sometimes be completed in two weeks if funds are verified promptly.
Typical steps in a cash purchase include:
Beginning the search for a property
Providing proof of available funds
Securing title and escrow services
Completing a title search to confirm clear ownership
Scheduling a home inspection
Ordering an optional appraisal if desired
Conducting a final walkthrough
Completing the closing paperwork
Buying a House With a Mortgage: Around 45 Days or More
Financing introduces additional steps because the lender must review documents, complete underwriting, and schedule an appraisal. The period between offer acceptance and closing generally ranges from about 45 to 60 days but can be shorter or longer based on appraisal timing, property condition, lender workflow, loan type, and inspection results.
Typical steps in a mortgage-financed purchase include:
Researching price ranges and defining must-have features
Obtaining a pre-approval letter to verify readiness
Touring available homes
Submitting an offer and negotiating terms
Scheduling a home inspection
Completing a final walkthrough
Signing loan documents and closing on the home
Buying a Short Sale Property: At Least Three Months
Short sales often take significantly longer than standard purchases. Despite the name, these transactions usually extend for several months because the seller’s lender must review and approve the offer. This approval process can be slow, and many buyers wait to begin the full mortgage process until approval is granted.
Typical steps in a short sale purchase include:
Obtaining pre-approval for financing
Searching for eligible properties
Submitting an offer that fits the lender’s expectations
Sending required documents to the seller’s lender for approval
Scheduling a home inspection
Completing a required appraisal
Finalizing the closing process once approval is issued
Frequently Asked Questions About the Homebuying Process
What can delay the process?
Delays often come from low credit scores, incomplete financial documents, appraisal issues, inspection findings, or extended negotiations about repairs.
Can the mortgage approval process be accelerated?
Yes. Providing all requested documents promptly, maintaining organized financial records, and securing pre-approval early can reduce delays.
Is paying with cash always the better option?
Not always. Cash can provide certain advantages, but financing allows buyers to keep more savings available for other needs or investments.
What happens if financing is not approved before closing?
This may cause delays or could cancel the transaction entirely, depending on the terms outlined in your agreement and any protections in place.
Should cash buyers still get an inspection?
Yes. An inspection helps uncover hidden issues and protects the buyer from unexpected expenses, even when no lender is involved.
King & Edge Real Estate Agents in Boise, Idaho
As experienced Boise real estate agents, we are honored to have the opportunity to serve you and be a part of your real estate journey. Let us guide you towards a successful and rewarding experience, where your goals become our goals, and your vision becomes a reality. Contact us today and discover the unparalleled service and expertise that sets King & Edge Real Estate apart as we help you sell your home in Boise or find your place to call home.
// View Our Portfolio of Listings
Stacey King Boise Real Estate Agent
Raised in a family engaged in custom building and real estate appraisal, Stacey was destined for a career in real estate. Moving to Boise in 2010, she developed a deep love for the area, purchasing her first home in 2016, a step that ignited her passion to help others experience the transformative power of homeownership. Stacey has built her business on integrity, exceptional client experience, meaningful relationships, and community investment. She dedicates a portion of each commission to support local and global charities, with a special passion for the Women’s and Children’s Alliance, aiding victims of domestic abuse. Stacey’s commitment to her clients and her community has paved the way for enduring friendships and a fulfilling career.
