10 Things That Can Delay Your Closing (and How to Avoid Them)

By Leonardo Rostoker

The finish line is in sight — your dream home, investment property, or that long-awaited sale is just a few days away from closing. But then… a delay. 

What happened?

At Go Go Titles, we see the behind-the-scenes of real estate transactions every day. While most closings go smoothly, some hit unexpected bumps in the road. 

Here are 10 of the most common issues that delay closings — and what you can do to stay on track.

1.Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation

Missing invoices, prior survey, approved sellers' documents, fully executed addendums, forms, incorrect spellings, confirm vesting, or outdated information can halt the closing process instantly.

Tip: Double-check every document with your lender, realtor, and title company early on.

2. Unresolved Title Issues

Liens, judgments, unpaid taxes, utilities, open permits, or ownership disputes can surface during the title search.

Tip: Order title work early and address issues with your title agent ASAP.

3. Last-Minute Changes in Loan Terms

A sudden change in interest rate, down payment, or lender can trigger re-disclosures and delay funding.

Tip: Avoid making changes unless absolutely necessary — and keep everyone in the loop.

4. Buyer Credit Issues

New credit card debt, missed payments, or a job change can affect loan approval even days before closing.

Tip: Don’t open new lines of credit or make large purchases until after closing.

5. Appraisal Problems

If the appraisal comes in lower than the sale price, renegotiation or additional funds may be needed.

Tip: Know your local market and have a backup plan for a low appraisal.

6. Inspection Surprises

Major repairs or safety concerns found during inspection can lead to renegotiations or work delays.

Tip: Be proactive. Negotiate repairs or credits early and stick to agreed deadlines.

7. Missing or Delayed Payoffs

If a mortgage, lien, or HOA fee isn't paid off properly, the transaction stalls.

Tip: Work with a reliable title company to coordinate accurate, on-time payoffs.

8. Incorrect Closing Disclosure (CD)

Errors on the CD can delay the 3-day review period required by federal law.

Tip: Review your CD carefully as soon as it’s available and report any issues immediately.

9. Wire Transfer Issues

Delays in wire transfers, inability to verbally confirm wire instructions, wrong amounts, or fraud flags can stop closing day in its tracks.

Tip: Verbally confirm all wiring instructions with your title company prior to sending any monies, and send wires early in the day.

10. Scheduling Conflicts

Missing signatures, unavailable notaries, or late documents can push closing back.

Tip: Confirm all appointments, documents, and signers in advance — especially if anyone is remote.

At Go Go Titles, our job is to keep your closing on time and stress-free. By understanding and preparing for these common issues, you’ll always be ahead of the game.

Need help or have questions about your transaction?

Let Go Go Titles take care of the details while you focus on your new beginning. 

📞 Contact us today to learn more or get started with your title order.

👉 Visit our website at www.gogotitles.com or call us at (833) 358-6544.