Buyer Roadmap
Your path to the keys.
Eight clear stages, no surprises. Here's exactly what happens from your first consultation to closing day.
- 1
Buyer consultation
Day 1 · 30–45 minutesMeet with a Pure Radiance advisor to define your goals, neighborhoods, timeline, and budget.
What to expect: You'll leave with a written game plan, a lender introduction, and a clear next step.
- 2
Mortgage pre-approval
Week 1 · 3–7 daysPartner with a trusted lender to establish your budget and strengthen every offer you write.
What to expect: Expect to share pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and authorize a credit pull. You'll receive a Loan Estimate and pre-approval letter.
- 3
Home search
Weeks 1–8 · variesTour curated listings matched to your lifestyle, budget, and long-term value — not just search filters.
What to expect: Most buyers tour 8–15 homes before writing an offer. We flag red flags early so tours stay productive.
- 4
Making an offer
1–3 days once you find itWe craft pricing, contingencies, and terms designed to win — while protecting your leverage.
What to expect: You'll wire earnest money (1–2% of price) within 24–48 hours of acceptance. Expect counter-offers on competitive homes.
- 5
Attorney review & inspection
Days 1–10 after acceptanceIllinois attorney review, professional inspection, and negotiation of credits or repairs.
What to expect: Inspection runs $400–$700. Your attorney negotiates any issues in writing. Both sides can still walk during this window.
- 6
Appraisal & underwriting
Weeks 2–5Your lender orders the appraisal and completes underwriting. We coordinate every document.
What to expect: You'll respond to lender conditions quickly. If the appraisal comes in low, we renegotiate price or terms.
- 7
Final walkthrough
24–48 hours before closingConfirm the home is in agreed-upon condition and all negotiated items are complete.
What to expect: Bring your inspection report. Test appliances, HVAC, and confirm agreed repairs. Raise any issues before signing.
- 8
Closing & keys
Closing daySign at the title company, receive keys, and take ownership of your new home.
What to expect: Bring a government ID and a wire confirmation for cash-to-close. Signing takes 45–90 minutes. Keys are handed over at the table.
Total timeline
From "let's start" to keys in hand.
Most Chicago-area buyers spend 60–120 days from consultation to closing: about 4–8 weeks searching, 30–45 days under contract. Cash offers can close in 2–3 weeks; new construction can stretch 6–12 months.
Ready when you are
Schedule your buyer consultation.
A 30-minute conversation to scope your goals and outline your first steps.
Schedule your buyer consultation