When Does the Seller Get Money After Closing?

Selling your home is a major financial milestone, and one of the most common questions sellers ask is: When will I receive my money? While closing marks the end of the sale, receiving your proceeds isn’t always instant. Several key factors determine how quickly funds are disbursed, and understanding the process can help you plan your next move with confidence.

At Mark Spain Real Estate, we’ve helped thousands of home sellers navigate the closing process and receive their payouts on time. Here’s what you need to know about when and how you’ll get paid after closing.

What Happens During Closing?

Closing is the final stage in a real estate transaction. During this appointment:

• All contracts and legal documents are signed
• The buyer's funds are received and disbursed
• The property's title is officially transferred and recorded

Key Parties Involved:

• Seller
• Buyer
• Closing agent or attorney
• Lender (if applicable)
• Title company

When Do Sellers Receive Their Money?

Standard Disbursement Timeline

In most states, sellers receive their proceeds within 1–3 business days after closing. However, in some cases—especially in table funding states—you may receive your payment the same day.

What Affects the Timing of Your Payment?

Several factors can influence how quickly you get paid:

• State Laws: Some states require that the deed be officially recorded before funds are released.
• Type of Closing: Remote or mail-away closings may take longer due to processing and courier times.
• Timing of Closing: Closings late in the day or before holidays may delay processing until the next business day.
• Lender Funding: Delays in buyer’s loan funding can hold up the release of proceeds.

How Do Sellers Get Paid?

Wire Transfer
This is the most common and secure method. Funds are sent directly to your designated bank account.

Certified Check
Some sellers may choose to receive a certified or cashier’s check from the title or closing company.

What Needs to Happen Before Funds Are Released?

Before any money changes hands, the title or escrow company will:

• Confirm all documents are correctly signed
• Verify there are no last-minute title or lien issues
• Ensure the deed has been recorded with the appropriate county office

What Could Delay Payment?

Even in smooth transactions, a few issues can cause delays:

• Outstanding liens, taxes, or HOA dues
• Errors in closing paperwork
• Bank wire cut-off times
• Title discrepancies or late document submissions

Understanding Table Funding and State-Specific Rules

Table Funding States (e.g., Georgia, Texas, California):

In these states, everything—including disbursement—happens at the closing table, often allowing sellers to receive payment immediately.

Wet Funding vs. Dry Funding:

• Wet Funding States: Funds are disbursed once all documents are signed. These closings often result in quicker payment.
• Dry Funding States: Funds are only released once documentation has been reviewed and recorded, which can add 1–2 business days.

What If You Still Have a Mortgage?

If you owe money on your mortgage, your loan will be paid off first using proceeds from the sale. The remaining balance, minus closing costs, is what you receive.

Example:

• Sale Price: $500,000
• Mortgage Payoff: $320,000
• Closing Costs: $15,000
• Seller Proceeds: $165,000 (typically wired post-closing)

How to Ensure Timely Payment

To avoid unnecessary delays:

• Provide your wire instructions early and double-check for accuracy
• Respond promptly to last-minute requests from your title or escrow agent
• Confirm with your bank regarding wire processing times

Why Work with Mark Spain Real Estate?

At Mark Spain Real Estate, we make closing simple and predictable. Our team works directly with top closing professionals to ensure your transaction moves quickly, and your proceeds are delivered without delay.

Looking to sell your home quickly and get paid fast? With our Guaranteed Offer Program, you can skip the showings and close in as little as 21 days.

Contact Mark Spain Real Estate today to start your stress-free selling journey with confidence—and receive your payment without the wait.