Buying Steps 39-40: Approaching the Finish Line
Andi Dyer • April 28, 2025
Step 39
Very soon, we should receive what’s called the “Clear to Close” from your Mortgage Lender and Underwriter. What does Clear to Close mean? Clear to Close, means that the Lenders and Underwriters have given the final look at all of the paperwork, your bank accounts, etc., and have approved the loan. By giving us the Clear to Close, they are saying we can move forward with the closing and that they will fund the purchase of your new home, which is excellent news!
Once the Clear to Close is received, the Title Company will schedule the closing date, time, and location.
Questions? Contact us at andi@andidyer(dot)com or 360-734-6479.
Step 40
It’s closing time!
Your Lender has issued a clear to close (CTC) loan approval and sent these documents to the Escrow Company.
Review all closing documents thoroughly as soon as you receive them and let the Closer know if you see any issues or have any questions.
A few important reminders for closing:
- Bring your photo ID with you (ideally a driver’s license or passport)
- Bring your checkbook (just in case)
- Bring copies of your earnest money receipts and wire transfer receipt for the deposit and closing costs
Closing takes approximately 1 hour; however, it can be as short as 1/2 hour or up to 3 hours if there are problems. At closing, in addition to you, there will usually be the following people present:
- The Title Officer. The Title Officer makes sure everything is signed properly, sends all of the signed documents to the Underwriter for one last review, and issues any refund checks at the end of closing.
The Sellers will sign at a different time than you.
A note about spouses who are not on the mortgage loan:
Talk to your Lender if you are divorced or getting divorced. You may need to bring additional documentation, such as a divorce decree.
During closing, make sure you understand how and when the taxes get paid (i.e., are they wrapped up in your mortgage payment and paid by the bank, or do you need to set aside additional funds for this and pay twice a year?) You’ll receive a copy of the Closing Disclosure. Hold on to this! You’ll need it next year when you prepare your taxes.
CONGRATULATIONS, NEW HOMEOWNER!
The Title Company will call me when it is officially recorded, and I will contact you ASAP with the good news. I will let you know what the plan is to get your keys and when you can move in.
Questions? Contact us at andi@andidyer(dot)com or 360-734-6479.
Learn how to invest in Bellingham real estate without getting overwhelmed. Discover expert tips on zoning, rentals, and ROI in Whatcom County.
If you’ve been refreshing rate trackers over your morning Woods Coffee, good news: Whatcom County mortgage rates just slid to a new 2025 low after a softer-than-expected U.S. jobs report. Translation? The bond market is betting the Federal Reserve will trim short-term rates multiple times, and that’s putting downward pressure on home loan costs here in Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden, and Birch Bay. Why rates dropped this week (in plain English) When the monthly jobs report comes in weak, investors get cautious and shift money into safer assets like U.S. Treasurys. That pushes Treasury yields down—and mortgage rates often follow. You may hear chatter about “basis points” and “Fed cuts.” Don’t stress the jargon: the big picture is that borrowing just got a bit cheaper. Jobs report → bond yields → mortgage rates Slower hiring = lower expectations for inflation and growth Lower expectations = lower bond yields Lower bond yields = more favorable mortgage rates for homebuyers What lower rates mean in Bellingham, Ferndale & beyond Buyers: more purchasing power (but move fast) A small rate dip can boost your budget by tens of thousands over a 30-year loan. In neighborhoods like Barkley, Lettered Streets, and Cordata—where updated homes under $700K still draw weekend traffic—expect renewed competition. Get pre-approved and rate-locked so you can tour on Saturday and write on Sunday. Sellers: more showings, smarter pricing Falling rates wake up sidelined buyers. That can mean stronger open house turnout in Ferndale’s newer plats and quicker activity on well-prepped listings near Lake Whatcom and Meridian. Price with the market (not last spring’s wish list), and lean on fresh staging and pro photos to ride the momentum. Should you refinance now or wait? Have a rate starting with 7 or 8? Run the numbers now. Even a 0.5% drop can pay for itself quickly. Locked recently in the mid-6s? Keep an eye on the next Fed meeting. If the trend continues, a “float-down” with your lender could be your friend. Jumbo or VA/FHA loans? Program-specific pricing moves differently—let’s audit your scenario before you jump. Local lens: Whatcom County micro-trends we’re seeing Bellingham real estate market: Nicely updated, move-in-ready homes under the county median still draw multiple offers when priced right. Lynden: Tight inventory for single-level homes; rate drops amplify demand from downsizers. Birch Bay/Blaine: Waterfront and view condos perk up quickly when rates ease—watch HOA dues and special assessments in your math. Ferndale: Newer construction with energy-efficient features is benefiting as monthly payments dip. Action plan: 3 quick steps to capitalize Get a same-day pre-approval refresh. Rates shift. Make sure your letter and payment estimates reflect today’s pricing. Request a “payment-first” search. Tell me your ideal monthly payment; I’ll reverse-engineer neighborhoods and property types that fit. Plan your lock strategy. Consider a lock-and-shop or float-down option, especially if you’re 30–45 days from closing. FAQ Will lower mortgage rates drop home prices in Bellingham? Not automatically. Lower rates often increase demand, which can support or nudge up prices—especially for well-located, move-in-ready homes. Is it better to buy now or wait for more Fed cuts? If the right home shows up and the payment works, waiting can cost you in competition. We can structure contingencies and a lock strategy to manage risk. What about first-time buyers in Whatcom County? Here’s the bonus: I’m a certified Washington State Housing Finance Commission instructor , which means I can connect you with programs that unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance . If you’re starting out, this can be a serious game-changer. Call me today to start a conversation, Andi Dyer, 360.734.6479
Bellingham SeaFeast: Save the Dates! SeaFeast is back on the waterfront Saturday–Sunday, Sept 27–28 , 10 am–5 pm at Squalicum Harbor, and general admission is free . It’s a two-day celebration of our working harbor, maritime heritage, and (of course) incredible local seafood. What to expect Local seafood vendors (yes, the food court is your oyster), a beer/wine/cider garden, and Lummi Nation’s traditional salmon barbecue. Hands-on maritime fun: kids boat-building, “meet your fisherfolk,” a Coast Guard rescue demo, a family parade, and a waterfront 5K, Live music, arts vendors, education booths with a prize “passport,” and more. Plus, you can level-up your day with ticketed experiences like San Juan Cruises harbor rides, an All American Marine tour, a VIP Lounge with raw oyster bar, and crafty workshops. Plan your visit : Explore the overview and reserve ticketed add-ons in advance so you can spend less time in line and more time on the docks with your favorite fisherfolk.
21 Projects That Will Actually Hurt Your Home Value
LAST CHANCE: First-Time Homebuyer Class — Two-Night Series (Sept & October) Missed Tuesday’s class at Goods? You’ve got two more chances this year—each is a two-night event. Pick one month and plan to attend both nights to complete the series at Movement Mortgage: 2200 Rimland Dr, Suite #250, Bellingham, WA 98226. Choose your series: * September: Sept 15 and Sept 17 at 6:00 pm * October: Oct 20 and Oct 21 at 6:00 pm Why join us: Unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (eligibility applies; this class is required to qualify). Whatcom County market snapshot: what’s moving, what’s sitting, and why. Clear, step-by-step game plan: financing → offers → inspections → keys. Live Q&A with local pros. Bring your questions (we’ll translate the acronyms). Space is limited—these are our final classes of the year. P.S. Assistance programs have eligibility requirements and limited funds. We’ll walk you through the details so you know exactly where you stand.
LAST CHANCE: First-Time Homebuyer Class — Two-Night Series (Sept & October) Missed Tuesday’s class at Goods? You’ve got two more chances this year—each is a two-night event. Pick one month and plan to attend both nights to complete the series at Movement Mortgage: 2200 Rimland Dr, Suite #250, Bellingham, WA 98226. Choose your series: * September: Sept 15 and Sept 17 at 6:00 pm * October: Oct 20 and Oct 21 at 6:00 pm Why join us: Unlock up to $40,000 in down payment assistance through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission (eligibility applies; this class is required to qualify). Whatcom County market snapshot: what’s moving, what’s sitting, and why. Clear, step-by-step game plan: financing → offers → inspections → keys. Live Q&A with local pros. Bring your questions (we’ll translate the acronyms). Space is limited—these are our final classes of the year. P.S. Assistance programs have eligibility requirements and limited funds. We’ll walk you through the details so you know exactly where you stand.
If you know Bellingham, you know 1107 Railroad Ave. This is the building that grew up with Boundary Bay Brewery from its early days in the basement to the bustling beer garden and stage that became a heartbeat of downtown. Now, this iconic property is officially back on the market . 3 connected buildings (1103–1107 Railroad Ave) Prime .55 acre lot across from Depot Market Square 10,599 sq. ft. of historic commercial space Zoned Commercial with endless potential Whether you see the future as a brewery, event space, or another community-minded hub, opportunities like this don’t come around often. Reach out today to explore this rare piece of Bellingham’s history and future. Andi Dyer Real Estate Real estate with care, respect, and vision Andi: 360.734.6479 | Katie: 360.820.3065
Tuesday evenings now through Aug 26th from 6–8 PM , depart from the Bellingham Cruise & Ferry Terminal for a bay tour with local legend Kolby LaBree plus select trivia and family nights. Tickets $55 (or $45 for Museum members); kids 5 and under sail free . Proceeds support Whatcom Museum programs. Grab your spot before they sell out. P.S. I did the history tour with Kolby a few weeks ago and it was terrific, I learn something new each time with her!
Join us and our guest Amy Baker to learn about first-time home buying on Tuesday, August 19th, at Goods Local Brews (2620 Northwest Ave.) at 6 pm. Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, and we’re here to help make the process simple and stress-free! Join us for our First-Time Home Buyer Seminar, where we’ll break down everything you need to know—from understanding mortgages and down payment assistance programs to navigating the home-buying process with confidence. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step, this seminar will provide expert insights and practical advice to help you make informed decisions on your journey to homeownership. Questions? Call/text: 360.734.6479
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