Closing Delays in 2025: 7 Preventable Mistakes Florida Agents Still Make

Avoid costly closing delays in 2025. Learn 7 common mistakes Florida real estate agents still make and how to prevent them with smarter title strategies.

In the fast-paced Florida real estate market of 2025, speed, clarity, and precision are everything. Homebuyers and sellers expect smooth, efficient closings, especially in hot markets like Tampa, Orlando, and Clearwater. Yet, despite new tech and streamlined systems, closing delays are still surprisingly common.

As a Florida-based title insurance company with nearly two decades of experience, we at All Real Estate Title Solutions Inc. (ARETSI) have seen it all. And most delays? They're entirely preventable.

So let’s dive into the 7 most common closing mistakes agents still make in 2025, and how you can avoid them to protect your deals, your reputation, and your clients' trust.

1. Waiting Too Long to Order the Title Search

The mistake: Many agents still delay ordering the title search until the contract is well underway—or worse, when the closing date is already approaching. This lag eats up precious time.

Why it's a problem: Title issues can take days or weeks to resolve. Judgments, liens, unpaid taxes, or clerical errors need time to cure. Waiting too long creates a domino effect of delays.

How to fix it: Make it your standard practice to order the title search as soon as the executed contract is in hand. Partner with a responsive title company like ARETSI that prioritizes fast turnarounds.

2. Failing to Communicate Buyer and Seller Info Accurately

The mistake: Incomplete or incorrect contact details, legal names, or marital status on contracts cause headaches later. We've seen deals delayed by something as small as a misspelled name or an unlisted spouse.

Why it's a problem: Title companies need precise legal details for searches, documentation, and insurance issuance. Errors can require contract amendments and delays in document prep.

How to fix it: Always confirm full legal names, marital status, and contact info when preparing the contract. Create a checklist or intake form for your buyers and sellers to complete up front.

3. Skipping Over HOA/Condo Requirements

The mistake: Agents often overlook the unique requirements of homeowner associations or condo boards, such as application approvals, fees, or estoppel requests.

Why it's a problem: Missing an HOA requirement can derail a closing quickly. Boards may take days to process documents or deny applications outright.

How to fix it: If the property falls under an HOA or condo board, get those details immediately. Request the estoppel letter early. Give buyers a checklist of what to expect, and help them stay ahead of the game.

4. Inconsistent Coordination with the Lender

The mistake: Assuming the lender is “on track” without checking in. Agents sometimes operate on autopilot, expecting things to come together magically at the closing table.

Why it's a problem: If a lender doesn't receive required documents (insurance binder, title commitment, property survey), underwriting may be delayed.

How to fix it: Set weekly check-ins with both the lender and the title company. Confirm everyone has what they need, especially in the final 10 days before closing. ARETSI helps coordinate lender communication on your behalf.

5. Neglecting Remote or Out-of-State Closing Needs

The mistake: With so many out-of-state buyers and sellers moving to Florida, some agents still treat the process like it’s 2019, assuming everyone can attend an in-person closing.

Why it's a problem: Remote closings require notarized documents, courier coordination, and sometimes even online notary tools. Failing to plan for that adds days to the timeline.

How to fix it: Ask your clients early if they plan to attend the closing in person. If not, coordinate with your title company for remote online notarization (RON) or mail-away packages. ARETSI offers RON services to help eliminate delays.

6. Overlooking Title Insurance Education

The mistake: Some agents breeze past the title insurance explanation during the homebuying process. As a result, buyers hesitate or question charges at closing, causing last-minute confusion or hold-ups.

Why it's a problem: Title insurance isn’t just another fee; it’s protection for your client. Unanswered questions can delay document signing or funding approval.

How to fix it: Take a few moments early in the process to explain why title insurance matters. Provide educational resources (like ARETSI’s quick guides), and offer to connect clients directly with your trusted title partner to get answers.

7. Missing the Final Walkthrough Issues

The mistake: The final walkthrough is rushed or skipped, and then buyers spot problems (like repairs not completed or appliances missing) that delay signing.

Why it's a problem: Buyers may refuse to close until issues are fixed, triggering reschedules, contract extensions, or escrow adjustments.

How to fix it: Schedule the walkthrough with enough time before closing to address issues. Keep open communication with the seller’s agent to resolve concerns quickly. A pre-walkthrough checklist can help you and your client stay organized.

How ARETSI Helps Agents Prevent Delays

At ARETSI, we don’t just issue title insurance; we partner with real estate agents across Tampa, Brandon, Orlando, Clearwater, and beyond to keep closings on track. Here’s how we support you:

• Fast and accurate title searches (often within 24-48 hours)

• Bilingual communication for your Spanish-speaking clients

• Weekly updates so you're never left in the dark

• Remote Online Notarization (RON) and mail-away services

• Clear, client-friendly education on title insurance and closing steps

• Custom closing checklists for agents

The fewer surprises at the closing table, the more your clients trust you.

Final Thoughts

Your time is valuable. Your clients’ trust is priceless. And in a year where competition is fierce and expectations are sky-high, preventing delays is not optional; it’s essential.

By avoiding these seven common missteps and partnering with a responsive, experienced title company like ARETSI, you can deliver a seamless closing experience every time.

Let’s make your next deal smoother, faster, and stress-free.

📍 Need a title partner who makes you look good?

✅ Visit www.aretsifl.com

✅ Call us at (813) 876-4373

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Signature:

All Real Estate Title Solutions Inc. (ARETSI)

Your Trusted Partner in Title Insurance

1430 W Busch Blvd, Tampa, FL 33612

2831 Allegra Way, Lutz, FL 33559 (By Appointment Only)