Short Answer
Celebrate first. Then a set of steps runs in order until you get the keys. Alex Mayer walks every Rochester MN buyer through them so you always know what is next.
Step One Is to Celebrate
You Only Get Your Offer Accepted Once
Alex tells buyers to take time to celebrate the day they get a fully signed purchase agreement. It is a moment worth enjoying.
It Is Still Day One
It is only day one of all the days between acceptance and closing. Alex gives you a dated list so each step has its place.
The Steps in Order
Earnest Money Within Two Business Days
Your deposit is due within two business days of a fully signed purchase agreement. Alex tells you where it goes and confirms it arrived.
Inspections, Contractors, and Negotiations
Inspectors and any contractors need to get out to the home quickly. Then the negotiations begin.
In Minnesota, all negotiations and inspections need to be finished before the inspection contingency expires. Only the buyer can cancel during it, and the buyer can cancel for any reason.
The Loan Estimate and Underwriting
If you have a mortgage, you get a loan estimate at the beginning. Underwriting runs through the middle of the transaction.
The Appraisal
After the inspection contingency is removed, the appraisal comes next. Alex explains your options before you write an offer in case it comes in low.
Title Work
Title work happens throughout the transaction. Alex stays in contact with the title company so nothing is missed.
Clear to Close
Once the title work, the appraisal, and the mortgage underwriting are complete, you are clear to close.
The Final Walkthrough
A final walkthrough is not another inspection. It confirms the home is in the same general condition as when you signed, and that agreed repairs are done.
Closing Day
You sign, show identification, and provide the final funds. Your title company tells you the exact amount ahead of time.
What Can Slow a Closing Down
Missed Lender Requests
Unanswered requests are a common cause of delay. Respond the same day when you can.
Changes to Your Finances
New debt or a job change can stop an approval. Call Alex or your lender first.
How Alex Mayer Runs Contract to Close
Education
Alex goes over the whole path again once your offer is accepted. Every step gets explained twice.
Communication
He stays in constant contact with the lender, inspector, title company, and everyone involved. No update is still an update.
Responsiveness
Mike Hagen said Alex’s industry connections helped them close quickly and that the process was smoother than expected. He said Alex was there at the closing to celebrate.
When You Call Alex, Alex Answers
Alex works through his Direct Representation Model. From contract to closing, you deal with the agent who negotiated your offer, not a handoff.
I respond fast, often within minutes, because Responsiveness is one of my core values.
Closing questions can be urgent. When you call, you reach the agent representing you.
What Clients Say About Alex
Testimonial on Alex: one first-time homebuyer said this about being walked through each step.
He took the time to explain each step clearly, making sure we understood everything without ever feeling rushed or confused.
Jaide Hoppe, first-time homebuyer, SoTellUs review
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Close on a House in Rochester MN?
Most of Alex’s buyers close within 30 to 60 days of starting. Your timeline depends on financing, inventory, and readiness.
What Should I Do the Day My Offer Is Accepted?
Celebrate. Then call Alex to start the list. Earnest money is due within two business days.
Is the Final Walkthrough Another Inspection?
No. It confirms the home is in the same general condition as at the purchase agreement and that agreed repairs were completed.
Can I Cancel After My Offer Is Accepted?
In Minnesota, the buyer can cancel for any reason during the inspection contingency, and only the buyer can. Your purchase agreement sets the dates.
What if the Appraisal Comes in Low?
Your options depend on the contract. Alex explains them before you write the offer.
What Should I Avoid Before Closing?
New debt, big purchases, and job changes without talking to your lender. Keep your finances steady.
About Alex Mayer
Alex Mayer is a full-time Rochester MN real estate agent, a 4X winner of Best Real Estate Agent in Rochester MN with 350+ five-star reviews. His core values are Education, Communication, and Responsiveness, which guide every part of his business.
He has a “Direct Representation Model,” meaning his clients work directly with him, not a large team with junior agent handoffs. His promise: you’ll know what to expect, how to operate, and what needs to be done to be successful in the Rochester MN real estate market.
He specializes in first-time homebuyers, Mayo Clinic and other relocating buyers, and Rochester MN sellers, including move-up, downsizing, and estate sales. Alex is also known for his Alaskan Malamute dogs, Atlas and Kaia, who are featured in much of his local branding.