What Happens After I Accept an Offer?
Accepting an offer is an exciting milestone, but it isn’t the end of the home-selling process. Once you’re under contract, there are several important steps before you hand over the keys. Here’s what you can expect.
Your Home Goes Under Contract
Once both parties sign the purchase agreement, your home is officially under contract. The buyer will submit their earnest money deposit, and key contract deadlines begin.
The Buyer Schedules Inspections
Most buyers choose to have a home inspection shortly after the contract is signed. Depending on the results, they may:
Move forward without changes.
Request repairs.
Ask for a credit at closing.
In some cases, terminate the contract if allowed under the inspection contingency.
Your REALTOR® will help you review any requests and negotiate the best outcome.
The Buyer Finalizes Their Mortgage
If the buyer is financing the purchase, their lender will:
Verify income and assets.
Order an appraisal.
Complete the underwriting process.
Issue final loan approval.
Your REALTOR® will stay in contact with the buyer’s agent and lender to help keep everything on schedule.
Title Work Is Completed
The title company will:
Verify ownership.
Check for liens or outstanding issues.
Prepare the closing documents.
Coordinate with all parties to ensure a smooth settlement.
If any title issues arise, they’ll work with you to resolve them before closing.
Prepare for Moving Day
As closing approaches, you’ll want to:
Schedule your move.
Transfer or cancel utilities.
Complete any agreed-upon repairs.
Leave behind manuals, keys, garage door openers, and any items included in the sale.
The Final Walk-Through
Shortly before closing, the buyer will complete a final walk-through to confirm the home is in the agreed-upon condition and that any negotiated repairs have been completed.
Closing Day
At closing, you’ll sign the final documents needed to transfer ownership. Once all paperwork is completed and funds have been received, the sale is finalized and you’ll hand over the keys to the new owner.
How Your REALTOR Guides You Through the Process
From the moment you accept an offer until closing day, your REALTOR coordinates with the buyer’s agent, lender, title company, inspectors, and attorneys (when applicable). They’ll keep you informed of important deadlines, explain each step, negotiate on your behalf, and help ensure your transaction stays on track.
The Bottom Line
Accepting an offer is just the beginning of the closing process. While inspections, financing, title work, and closing may seem overwhelming, having an experienced REALTOR® by your side helps make the transaction as smooth and stress-free as possible.
