What Happens After an Offer Is Accepted? | Home Buying Timeline

Your offer was accepted. Congratulations!

That's a big milestone, but it's not the finish line.

Now the work shifts from getting your offer accepted to getting you to the closing table.

Over the next few weeks, there will be inspections, financing, deadlines, and paperwork. It may sound like a lot, but each step has a purpose, and I'll help guide you through every one of them.

 

Step 1: Deliver Your Earnest Money

One of the first things you'll do is deliver your earnest money.

It's a deposit that shows the seller you're serious about buying the home. The money is held in escrow and is typically applied toward your down payment or closing costs.

Your contract also includes contingencies that explain when those funds are protected, so we'll make sure you understand those deadlines.

 

Step 2: Schedule Your Home Inspection

Shortly after going under contract, you'll schedule a home inspection.

Almost every inspection finds something.

That's normal.

The inspection isn't about finding a perfect house. It's about understanding the home's condition before you close and deciding whether any repairs should be negotiated.

 

Step 3: Your Loan Moves Into Final Approval

While the inspection is happening, your lender is working to finalize your loan.

They may ask for updated documents or additional information. Respond quickly so nothing delays closing.

Until you've closed, don't:

• finance furniture
• open new credit cards
• buy a car
• change jobs
• make large purchases

Even small financial changes can affect your loan approval.

 

Step 4: The Appraisal

Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home's value supports the loan.

Most appraisals come in at the purchase price.

If the appraisal comes in low, don't panic. There are several ways we can work through it together, and we'll discuss the best option if that happens.

 

Step 5: The Final Walk-Through

A day or two before closing, we'll do one final walk-through to make sure:

agreed-upon repairs were completed

the home's condition hasn't changed

everything included in the contract is still there

It's the last chance to confirm everything is ready before you become the owner.

 

Step 6: Closing Day

By closing day, most of the work is already behind you.

You'll sign the paperwork, pay any remaining closing costs, and once everything is complete, you'll get the keys to your new home.

 

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FAQs

How long does it take to close after an offer is accepted?
Most transactions close in about 30 to 45 days, although the timeline can vary depending on financing, inspections, and the terms of your contract.

What happens if the inspection finds problems?
Most inspections uncover something. Depending on what's found, buyers and sellers may negotiate repairs, seller credits, or price adjustments. I'll help you decide what's worth asking for.

Can I buy furniture or make large purchases before closing?
It's best to wait until after closing. New debt or large purchases can affect your loan approval during underwriting.

What is an appraisal?
An appraisal is an independent opinion of the home's value ordered by your lender to confirm the property supports the loan amount.

What happens at closing?
You'll sign the final paperwork, pay any remaining closing costs, and once everything is complete, you'll receive the keys to your new home.

From Under Contract to Closed
Once you're under contract, my job changes.
I'm no longer helping you find the right house. I'm helping you get to the closing table.
I'll coordinate with your lender, stay on top of deadlines, keep you informed, and help solve problems before they become bigger ones.
You don't have to remember every deadline or wonder what comes next.
That's what I'm here for.