To handle transfer procedures for purchasing a second-hand home in the United States, follow these steps: Verify the property title for liens or disputes, open an escrow account to manage funds and documents, schedule a professional inspection, execute a purchase agreement with legal review, secure mortgage funding or pay in cash, and complete the final transfer at a closing ceremony. All parties must sign final documents, and the deed must be recorded with the local county recorder’s office.

The process ensures legal compliance and minimizes risks. Title verification is critical because 15% of U.S. home purchases involve title defects, according to the American Land Title Association (ALTA). Escrow services, used in 90% of residential transactions, reduce fraud by 30% compared to direct payments, per the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Professional inspections uncover 8-10% of hidden issues, such as mold or structural problems, which cost buyers $5,000 to $20,000 to repair on average, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Purchase agreements must include clear clauses for contingencies (e.g., financing, inspection), with 70% of disputes arising from ambiguous terms, according to the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.). Securing mortgage funding typically takes 30-45 days, and delays can affect 25% of transactions, per Fannie Mae data. Finally, timely deed recording ensures property rights, with 12% of counties experiencing backlogs, as noted by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). These steps protect buyers, sellers, and lenders while ensuring efficient transfers.