The contract-to-close process is the period between when a real estate offer is accepted and when the sale officially closes and funds transfer. This timeline typically spans 30-45 days and involves six distinct phases: contract receipt, inspections and due diligence, loan processing and appraisal, title and escrow work, final walkthrough preparation, and closing day itself. During this critical period, a transaction coordinator (TC) manages all moving parts—coordinating with lenders, title companies, inspectors, appraisers, and attorneys—to ensure every deadline is met, every document is collected, and the deal closes on time. Transaction coordinators are the backbone of successful real estate transactions, handling the dozens of tasks that turn a signed contract into a funded deal.