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From contract to closing in Florida: the dates that matter
After both sides sign, a Florida sale runs on deadlines: deposit, inspection, financing, appraisal, title and the final walkthrough. Here is the order.
By Danielle Salomon and Simone Pakoys · Updated 11/12/2026 · General information, not legal or tax advice.
Signing the contract is the start of the work, not the end. Florida purchase contracts run on deadlines, and missing one can cost a deposit or a deal. Here is what happens and in what order.
Deposit
The buyer's good-faith deposit goes to the escrow agent named in the contract, usually within a few days of signing. The contract sets the exact deadline.
Inspection period
The buyer inspects the home, often with a four-point and wind mitigation report for insurance. Depending on the contract, the buyer may ask for repairs or credits, or cancel within this period.
Condo or association approval
Many condos and some communities must approve the buyer. Applications take time, so they go in early.
Financing and appraisal
The buyer's lender orders an appraisal and works toward loan approval by the date in the contract. If the appraisal comes in low, the contract says what happens next.
Title and survey
The title company searches for liens and open permits and prepares the title policy. Problems found early are much easier to fix.
Final walkthrough and closing
The buyer checks the home shortly before closing. Then both sides sign, funds move through escrow, and the keys change hands.