So, you're under contract on a Colorado mountain property—congrats! But now what? If you're a first-time buyer or it's been a few years, you might be wondering what exactly happens between going under contract and finally holding the keys to your mountain dream.
Let’s break down the process in plain terms: title work, surveys, and the key moments you need to be ready for after the ink dries on your offer.
1. What "Under Contract" Actually Means
Being “under contract” means the buyer and seller have agreed to the terms of the sale—but it’s not a done deal yet. This period is where contingencies come into play. You’ll work through inspections, due diligence, and get everything lined up before closing.
✅ Common steps during this phase:
-
Title search
-
Property inspections
-
Survey (if needed)
-
Appraisal (if financing)
-
Loan underwriting
2. The Importance of Title Work
Your title company plays a major role in the process. They’ll review the property’s history to confirm:
-
Who owns it
-
If there are any liens
-
If there are any easements (like driveways or utility access)
-
Whether there are encumbrances or outstanding issues that could block the sale
💡 A clean title = peace of mind. If issues pop up, they’ll need to be resolved before closing. This step can take several days to a couple of weeks.
3. Surveys Can Make or Break a Mountain Deal
Mountain properties in Colorado often come with irregular boundaries, old mining claims, or parcels that look fine on paper but are split in real life.
If the seller doesn’t have a recent ILC (Improvement Location Certificate) or boundary survey, you may want to order one—especially if:
-
You're buying land
-
You plan to build or fence
-
The parcel has unique geography or unclear access
⛏️ In some areas, surveyors may need extra time—especially during late winter or early spring—so we recommend reaching out early and building that timing into the contract.
4. Cash vs. Financed Closings
If you’re paying cash, you could technically close in as little as 10–12 days. You’re mainly waiting on title work, and maybe a survey. But if you're financing, expect:
-
Appraisal timelines (can take 1–2 weeks)
-
Loan processing
-
Final conditions to clear before you get the “clear to close”
🎯 Either way, our team is there to guide you through every stage so nothing slips through the cracks.
5. What You Should Be Doing During This Time
As the buyer, this is your opportunity to:
-
Ask questions
-
Review HOA rules, well logs, and permits
-
Line up your insurance (especially tricky in high-risk fire zones)
-
Walk the property with apps like OnX Hunt to understand boundaries
👣 You want to feel completely confident about the land or home you’re buying—not just the photos on the MLS.
The Bottom Line
Going under contract is an exciting step—but it's just the beginning. With the right team (that’s us), you’ll navigate title work, surveys, and the fine print like a pro. Whether you’re buying your dream home or your next investment, we’ve got your back from first showing to final signature.
📞 Contact Us
🏡 Moxie Property Group
📞 (303) 578-1220
💻 [email protected]
📺 YouTube Video
