In my 15+ years of helping homeowners sell in Rochester NY, one of the most common questions I hear is: “When will I actually get my money after closing?” The answer depends on New York’s unique attorney-driven process. Unlike other states where closings can be instant, New York requires attorney involvement and formal recording before funds are disbursed.
The good news? With the right buyer and legal team, the process is smooth and transparent. At Brett Buys Roc Houses LLC, we make it a priority to set clear expectations so you know exactly what happens from the time you sign a contract to the day your funds hit your account.
How Closings Work in New York
Selling in New York is different from many states because it’s what’s called an “attorney state”. That means both the buyer and seller must have their own legal representation. Here’s the typical closing process:
- Contract Signed – Once you accept an offer, both attorneys review and finalize the purchase agreement.
- Title Search & Preparation – The buyer’s attorney orders a title search to confirm ownership and identify liens, judgments, or taxes owed. This step usually takes 2–4 weeks.
- Final Walkthrough – Shortly before closing, the buyer checks that the property is in agreed condition.
- Closing Day – Attorneys meet to exchange signed documents, finalize title transfer, and confirm the buyer’s funds are wired into escrow.
- Recording with the County – The deed must be officially recorded with Monroe County (or your local county). Only once the deed is recorded are funds released to the seller.
Closing Timeline in New York: What Sellers Should Expect
| Stage | Timeline | What Happens |
| Day 1–3 | Contract Signed | Buyer and seller attorneys review and finalize the purchase agreement. |
| Week 1–4 | Title Search & Preparation | Buyer’s attorney orders title search to check for liens, judgments, or taxes. Attorneys also prepare closing documents. |
| Week 4–6 | Attorney Review & Issue Resolution | Attorneys clear any title issues, resolve liens, and finalize mortgage/tax payoffs if applicable. |
| Final 2–3 Days Before Closing | Final Walkthrough | Buyer inspects the property to confirm condition matches agreement. |
| Closing Day (Around Day 30–50) | Closing Appointment | Attorneys meet, documents are signed, funds are wired to escrow. |
| Post-Closing (1–7 Business Days) | Recording & Fund Disbursement | Deed is recorded with the county. Seller’s proceeds are released within 5–7 business days (often faster, depending on county recording speed). |
✅ Key Note for Sellers: While most closings in Rochester NY happen in 30–50 days, your actual payout typically arrives within 5–7 business days after closing.
When Sellers Get Paid: The 5–7 Business Day Rule
Here’s what every Rochester homeowner should expect about funds:
- Standard Timeline: You’ll receive your proceeds within 5–7 business days after closing.
- Why the Wait? The attorney must confirm the deed has been recorded at the county before funds are disbursed. This protects both buyer and seller.
The Reality: In most cases, funds are released much faster—sometimes in just 1–3 days. But we recommend setting the expectation at 5–7 days so you’re never caught off guard if the recording office experiences delays.
What Can Delay a Closing?
Most Rochester closings take 30–50 days, but certain issues can stretch that timeline:
- Title Problems – Old liens, unpaid taxes, or judgments that must be resolved before transfer.
- Survey or Boundary Issues – Missing or disputed surveys can require additional work.
- Attorney Schedules – Since New York is an attorney state, availability of both attorneys matters.
- Bank Payoffs – If you have a mortgage, confirming the exact payoff amount can take time.
Calendar Holidays and Time of Year – Around Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and summer holiday weeks, attorneys, banks, and county offices may work reduced hours, slowing the process.
What Can Delay Payment After Closing?
Once closing happens, sellers usually expect money right away. In New York, you’ll receive your proceeds within 5–7 business days, but here are common reasons it may take longer:
- County Recording Delays – The deed must be recorded before funds are released; backlogs can add days.
- Bank Wire Processing – Large wire transfers may be flagged for verification.
- Attorney Disbursement Timing – Seller’s attorney must receive and distribute funds, which may add an extra day or two.
Holiday Closures – Banks and county clerks do not process wires or recordings on federal holidays, adding delay if your closing falls near one.
Real Example from Rochester NY
Recently, a seller in Irondequoit was worried about when they’d see their funds. We set the clear expectation of 5–7 business days. In reality, their money was wired just 48 hours after closing—but because expectations were clear, there was no stress or uncertainty during the wait. That’s the difference transparency makes.
FAQs
Do I need a lawyer to sell my house in New York?
Yes. Both buyers and sellers are legally required to have attorneys in New York.
Can I get my money the same day as closing?
Not in New York. Funds are only released once the deed is recorded, which takes a few days.
What if there are liens on my property?
Your attorney will use part of the closing funds to pay them off. The remaining balance is then disbursed to you.How long does the whole process take from contract to closing?
Typically 30–50 days, depending on title work and attorney schedules.
Final Thoughts: Clarity Builds Trust
Selling your home doesn’t have to feel like a guessing game. By understanding how closings work in New York and when you’ll actually receive your funds, you can move forward with confidence.
At Brett Buys Roc Houses LLC, we believe trust starts with transparency. That’s why we walk you through every step and never leave you wondering what comes next.