From Contract to Closing

At The Stratton Group, we understand that buying or selling a home is more than a transaction—it’s a major life move. Whether you’re looking to buy a home, curious about what your house is worth, or planning to sell a house in Springfield or nearby areas like Chatham, Pleasant Plains, Panther Creek, Sherman, or Clinton, knowing how the escrow process works is essential.

As a trusted real estate agency backed by Keller Williams Capital Properties, our local expertise, negotiation experience, and dedication to service make us the go-to choice for anyone searching for a realtor near me or the best real estate agency in Central Illinois.

Step 1: Earnest Money is Deposited

The escrow process begins once a buyer’s offer is accepted. The buyer then submits earnest money to a title company—showing a good faith commitment to the purchase. This amount is held securely until closing. Whether you’re buying in Springfield, Chatham, or Panther Creek, this deposit helps secure the deal.

Step 2: Home Inspection Period (10–14 Days)

The buyer has 10 to 14 days to perform a thorough home inspection. Even with new construction homes, this is an essential step to uncover any hidden issues. At The Stratton Group, we connect buyers with trusted inspectors to ensure peace of mind before moving forward.

Step 3: Repair Requests & Negotiation

If the inspection reveals necessary repairs, we’ll help buyers negotiate requests—and guide sellers through responses. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, you’ll want a local realtor by your side to navigate this pivotal step.

Step 4: Seller’s Response & Buyer’s Decision

Once the seller replies to the repair requests, the buyer chooses to proceed, renegotiate, or walk away. This is where a knowledgeable realtor in Springfield or Chatham can offer the strategic insight needed to protect your interests and close the deal smoothly.

Step 5: Appraisal Ordered by Lender

If a mortgage is involved, the lender will require an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. From homes in Sherman to townhomes in Clinton, the appraisal ensures the loan amount aligns with the home’s true worth.

Step 6: Final Mortgage Approval

With the appraisal complete and underwriting finalized, the buyer receives their final mortgage approval. Our team coordinates with lenders to ensure all paperwork is in order and deadlines are met—keeping your deal on track.

Step 7: Final Walkthrough & Signing

Before closing, the buyer conducts a final walkthrough to verify that the home is in agreed-upon condition. Once satisfied, both parties meet to sign the closing documents, officially transferring ownership.

Whether you’re buying a house in Pleasant Plains or preparing to sell a house in Panther Creek, we’ll guide you to the finish line.

Step 8: Closing Day – Escrow Complete!

On closing day, funds are disbursed, paperwork is signed, and the keys are exchanged. If you’re searching for a house for sale, a new construction home, or simply exploring how to move to Springfield Illinois, this is the moment where your journey becomes reality.

Why Choose The Stratton Group with Keller Williams Capital Properties?

We aren’t just top realtors in Illinois—we’re your neighbors, your advisors, and your advocates. We are also an A+ Better Business BureaWe proudly serve buyers and sellers throughout Springfield, Chatham, Pleasant Plains, Panther Creek, Sherman, and Clinton.

Whether you're looking to buy a home, sell a house, or simply ask “what is my house worth?”—our team is here with answers, action, and results.