We've covered renting vs. buying, whether Las Vegas is a good investment, and whether prices will drop. Today's question comes almost entirely from buyers relocating from somewhere else, especially California: can you actually buy a home here without being on the ground the whole time?
Yes — Most of the Process Can Happen Remotely
Virtual showings, video walkthroughs, e-signatures, remote inspections, and remote online notarization (RON) let most buyers complete the process without ever setting foot in the home before closing. Title companies routinely coordinate mobile notaries or RON for the documents that need it, and a small number of original documents can typically be handled by FedEx return if needed.
What the Timeline Actually Looks Like
A financed purchase typically runs 45-60 days from accepted offer to close; a cash purchase can close in 14-21 days. The home search phase before that varies widely, but 60-120 days total, from starting your search to holding keys, is a realistic range for most out-of-state buyers.
If You're Relocating for a New Job
If your move is tied to a new job that hasn't started yet, lenders can often qualify you under "future employment income" guidelines using a signed offer letter — but there are strict rules. The offer letter generally needs to be signed by both you and the employer, and your start date typically needs to fall within 90 days of closing for conventional loans (60 days for FHA). Some lenders also require at least one pay stub before funding, so if your start date and desired closing date are close together, plan for a short delay or aim to close a couple of weeks after your first paycheck.
What We Recommend Before You Commit
Even with a fully remote process available, do as much due diligence as you can — video walkthroughs of the neighborhood and commute, not just the home; a local buyer's agent who can be your eyes on the ground; and a home inspection you can review in detail remotely rather than skipping it to move faster.
Tomorrow — the final post in this series: Las Vegas vs. Phoenix — which one actually makes more sense for you?
This post reflects general process and lending information as of publication and is not a commitment to lend or a guarantee of loan approval. Lender requirements vary and change over time. Speak with Sherwyn or Ferguz Colonia for guidance specific to your relocation.
Sherwyn Colonia, NVRE License #S.185645 | Ferguz Colonia, NVRE License #S.199036 FIV Realty | (702) 234-5985 | thecoloniateam.com This is not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. We are committed to compliance with the Fair Housing Act and the Nevada Real Estate Division's licensing and advertising regulations.
