North Carolina contract deadlines and disclosures
A quick checklist for North Carolina agents, from signed contract to closing. Use it as a starting point: your signed contract always wins.
The contract
Most residential deals use the Offer to Purchase and Contract (Form 2-T), published by NC REALTORS and NC Bar Association. Closings are usually handled by a closing attorney.
Typical deadlines
Days are common starting points, not rules. Many are negotiated in every contract.
| Deadline | Typical timing | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Contract fully signed (Effective Date) | When the last party signs (day 0) | |
| Due diligence fee to the seller | At signing | |
| Earnest money delivered | 5 days after signing | |
| Loan application | 5 days after signing | Only if your contract includes it |
| Due Diligence Period ends (5 p.m.) | 14 days after signing | Set in each contract; typical shown |
| Settlement Date | 35 days after signing | Set in each contract; typical shown |
| Final walkthrough | 1 day before Settlement Date | |
| Possession | Same day as Settlement Date |
Disclosures and required forms
Required: Residential Property and Owners' Association Disclosure Statement, before the offer
Required: Mineral and Oil and Gas Rights Mandatory Disclosure Statement, before the offer
Required: Working with Real Estate Agents brochure at first substantial contact (confirm with your broker)
If it applies: Lead-based paint disclosure (built before 1978)
Money at closing
Transfer tax: Excise tax $1 per $500 (0.2%); the seller pays. (confirm with your broker)
Good to know
The buyer may end the deal for any reason until the Due Diligence Period ends; loan, appraisal, inspection and insurance all fit inside it.
If the due diligence fee isn't paid within one banking day of the seller's written notice, the seller may terminate.
Let Reta track it for you
Upload your signed contract and Reta builds this timeline with your real dates, reminds you before each deadline, and drafts the emails to your client, lender and title for you to approve. Your first deal is free.
This guide is general information for licensed agents, not legal advice. Rules and forms change; confirm with your broker or a local attorney. Last checked 2026-11-10.