How to Prevent Delays at the Closing Table:

Closings should be the fun part — popping champagne, handing over keys, and celebrating the finish line. But anyone in real estate or lending knows that even the smoothest transaction can hit a snag at the eleventh hour. From unsigned documents to overlooked municipal requirements, the final stages of a home loan closing in Massachusetts and New Hampshire can turn from celebration to chaos quickly.

Smoke Certificates & Local Requirements (Massachusetts Specific)

In Massachusetts, sellers are responsible for obtaining a smoke and carbon monoxide detector certificate from the local fire department before closing. But fire departments don’t always have next-day appointments — and some towns have inspection backlogs.

Solution: Schedule inspections early in the process. Share this state smoke alarm compliance guide with sellers and keep your transaction timeline padded.

Title Surprises

A missing mortgage discharge or a surprise lien can halt everything. These issues are especially common with older properties, estate sales, or refinances. Even unpaid water bills in NH can delay closings.

Solution: Have the title attorney conduct a thorough title search early, and follow up on payoff letters or missing discharges well before the closing date.

Funds Not Cleared or Missing Documentation 

Sometimes buyers assume that a wire transfer or certified check guarantees immediate access. Not always. Banks may hold large deposits, and underwriters may require additional documentation — right at the finish line.

Solution: Prep buyers on timelines for cleared funds and triple-check lender requirements ahead of the final week.

“Surprise” Repairs or Walkthrough Issues 

If a final walkthrough reveals an incomplete repair or unexpected damage, it can cause stress and even stall the closing.

Solution: Set a walkthrough 24–48 hours before closing, not the morning of. This allows time to resolve any issues or negotiate credits.

Missing People 

Closings can’t happen without the right people — including sellers, buyers, and notaries. In the age of remote work and travel, someone’s vacation can mean a reschedule.

Solution: Confirm everyone’s availability well in advance and plan for powers of attorney or remote notarization when allowed (and legal — more on that in a future blog!).