Technically the property is yours at the time of recording. However, the purchase contract will state the specific time the seller is to be out and the keys delivered to you. If you record in the morning it is usually mid day by the time the title company has the confirmation back from the county to release funds and keys. Check you purchase agreement for the details or ask your Realtor. Congratulations on your new purchase.

Well, this was interesting because I had no idea there was a convention such as noon or 5 PM, etc. I usually bring the keys and give them to the Buyer at the closing. I once had to take the keys back though, per my attorney's strict instructions, because the loan failed to fund that day. So to follow up on Patti's comment: If you need to get in ASAP, ask your lender if it is possible to fund the loan the night before or first thing in the morning. Some will not do this. But if you ask, you are still likely to get funded a bit quicker than if you don't ask.
Congratulations on your new home!

HI Ann:

It depends on what's specified on your contract and when is the customary time to record the deed - that's when the property is actually yours.

In Marin, the title is usually recorded by noon; so we set up the occupancy at 12:00PM - this allows the buyers to start moving in when the day is still young and bright.

However, sometimes both sides will negotiate a different time/date for close of escrow, that will be stated on the contract.

So, watch for both - what's on contract, and what can physically be done.

Best,
Sylvia

Ann, As Erin said, your contract will specify, but in most cases it is 5 PM on the day of the close of escrow. Often, once the deed is recorded at the county office, the seller will allow you possession of the keys. A lot depends on what time the loan actually funds, and how quivky your title company will go record. Ask your agent what her usual "MO" is!

Welcome home! Just in time for Christmas!

Patti Phillips

Good for you - you prob get them the day you close! It seems like you found a house quickly!

That should be specified on the bottom of the first page of your Residential Purchase Agreement (the "offer). Normally I specify that the buyer takes posession at 5pm on the date of the close of escrow...your agent may have specified something different? CONGRATULATIONS!!