Pile 1: The loan itself
Loan Estimate. Your quote. It shows the rate, the monthly payment, and the costs to close. You get it within three business days of applying. Get one from at least three lenders and compare them side by side.
Closing Disclosure. The same form with the final numbers. By law you get it at least three business days before closing. If a number grew since the estimate, ask why.
The note. Your actual promise to pay the money back — the amount, the rate, and the schedule.
The mortgage (or deed of trust). The paper that lets the lender take the house if you stop paying. Which name it goes by depends on your state.
Pile 2: The property
The deed moves ownership from the seller to you. The title company records it with the county.
Title insurance comes in two kinds: one protects the lender (usually required) and one protects you (optional, usually smart). Who pays for which varies by state.
Pile 3: The required facts and final math
The settlement statement lists every dollar in the deal — who pays what to whom.
Escrow setup papers, if your taxes and insurance get bundled into your payment.
Right to cancel. On a refinance or home-equity loan on the home you live in, you get three business days to back out after signing. This does not apply when you're buying.
ID and sworn statements — you are who you say, and you'll live there if the loan requires it.
Questions people ask
What's the difference between the Loan Estimate and the Closing Disclosure?
The Loan Estimate is your quote; the Closing Disclosure is the same form with the final numbers. They're government forms, so every lender's version looks the same. Compare them line by line.
When do you get the Closing Disclosure?
At least three business days before closing, by law. Use those days to check it against your quote and ask why any number grew.
Can you change your mind after signing?
On a refinance or home-equity loan on the home you live in, you get three business days to back out. When you're buying, you don't.