After finally finding your dream home, you don’t want to wait any longer to move in and start making it your own. However, patience is a virtue and at the end of the day you don’t want to cut any corners.
You definitely want your closing attorney to do their due diligence and make sure the property is free of any liens amongst other things and you obviously want a full and thorough inspection as houses are not always as great as they appear and you need to know exactly what you are buying, you don’t want a lemon.
My recommendation is to not rush the process. While it is possible to move in within a 20 day window from signing the contract, I would not count on it as there are too many factors outside of your control (attorney, appraiser, mortgage lender).
While it is true that a quick close is possible and may allow you to get the house for an even lower purchase price, do not count on a quick close and remember this is a big purchase, wouldn’t you rather wait a few extra days and be sure everything is in order than close a few days early and get stuck with something you were not aware of.
30 days from the day you sign the contract to your closing is typical and what should be expected, while it can be shorter and longer 30 days is a strong predictor.
Remember, don’t be in a rush and make sure everyone does their due diligence before closing, a couple of weeks is worth the wait especially if it ensures you are getting your dream home.