What's typical? 30-45 days?

First time home buyers, but we live abroad. We will be in a TX hotel (with children and dog) living out of suitcases until our household goods arrives. Moving truck takes about 2 months to arrive so need to plan everything far in advance.

30-45 days is the norm here. Can be quicker if closing cash. Happy to help you in the home buying process. We rebate half of the commission which you can use to buy down the rate or cover closing costs.

Assuming your loan file is uncomplicated and you are responsive with your lender you can get loans closed in 15 days or so (at least we are doing it routinely). Now, you would still want to get 30 days on your contract. The item that drags out closing time is the appraisal, but right now appraisals are coming quickly just because they are not terribly busy.