how soon after closing can you move in

You can often move in on the closing day itself if the occupancy date in your purchase agreement is set as the closing day. This means once the final paperwork is signed, funds transferred, and the property officially recorded in your name, you typically get the keys and can start moving in right away. However, the exact move-in timing depends on the contract terms, especially the agreed occupancy date, which may sometimes be later than the closing day. In some cases, sellers may have negotiated rent-back or post-occupancy arrangements, meaning buyers must wait days or weeks after closing before moving in. For new construction, move-in may also depend on final inspections and punch list completion. Therefore, the soonest you can move in is usually the closing day unless specified otherwise in the contract.