Top 5 Questions About Real Estate Closings in MA & NH Answered
Got questions about closing day? We’ve got answers—and maybe a few cautionary tales.Closings may sound simple (just sign and smile, right?), but the details can be anything but. Whether you’re new to buying or have flipped more homes than a pancake house, you probably still have questions. Here are five we hear all the time in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire:
1. How long does the closing process usually take?
In most cases, 30–60 days from contract to close—though title issues, inspections, and lender delays can extend that.
2. Who attends the closing?
Typically: the buyer, their attorney, the seller, their attorney (in MA), the lender, and the title company.
3. Do I need an attorney?
In Massachusetts, yes. In New Hampshire, it’s strongly recommended.
4. What happens if there’s a title issue?
The closing is paused until it’s resolved—so get a title search early.
5. When do I get the keys?
Usually, once funds are disbursed and the deed is recorded.
From timelines to title hiccups, your real estate attorney helps decode the process—and make sure there are no unpleasant surprises. Need a smooth closing? Work with experienced professionals who can answer the questions you didn’t think to ask.
Usually, once funds are disbursed and the deed is recorded.
Works Cited
“Attorney Role in Massachusetts Real Estate Closings.” Massachusetts Real Estate Law Blog, 2023, www.massrealestatelawblog.com/attorney-role-in-massachusetts-real-estate-closings. Accessed 19 May 2025.
“Buying a Home in New Hampshire.” New Hampshire Association of Realtors®, www.nhar.org/buying-a-home. Accessed 19 May 2025.
“Closing Process in Massachusetts.” American Land Title Association, www.alta.org/consumer-information/massachusetts-closing-process. Accessed 19 May 2025.
“Do You Need a Lawyer at Closing in New Hampshire?” Rocket Lawyer, www.rocketlawyer.com/real-estate/buy-sell-property/legal-guide/do-you-need-a-lawyer-at-closing-in-new-hampshire. Accessed 19 May 2025.
“Real Estate Transactions: Massachusetts.” Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School, www.law.cornell.edu/wex/real_estate_transactions_massachusetts. Accessed 19 May 2025.
Providing title, escrow, closing and settlement services to clients throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire
From Our Clients
“As a realtor, the Rocheford team went above and beyond to make sure my client was not only protected from a legal standpoint but also operated in a timely manner to execute the sale of my client’s dream home.
Thank you for the great experience for myself and my client! Looking forward to our next deal together!”
“I don’t usually use attorneys that often. But if an attorney is needed, I couldn’t recommend this law office enough. I always pride myself on responding quickly to emails and calls, but I was in awe of how fast paralegal Robert Heckman would respond to us. We sold our house a couple months ago and then did a two-part land swap with neighbors and my folks, and both transactions were seamless, including coming in to sign paperwork.
In short, if you need a law office that is responsive and attentive to detail, definitely consider them!”
“Excellent, conscientious and professional.
The communication throughout our Real Estate transaction was better than expected. We thought the fee to be very reasonable considering the work accomplished on our behalf. The law office handled the entire closing without us having to be in attendance….as we requested. I have had experience with very competent lawyers and law firms as the result of my previous profession. I would place this law office right up there among the best in their real estate field of expertise and surprisingly at very reasonable and affordable rates/fees.”
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