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What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted

  • Writer: Tammy Delwarte
    Tammy Delwarte
  • May 5
  • 2 min read

Getting your offer accepted is a big win—but it’s not the finish line. This is where the real process begins, and every step matters to make sure the deal closes smoothly.


1. Deposit Earnest Money

You’ll typically submit an earnest money deposit within a few days.

  • Shows you’re serious about the purchase

  • Held in escrow and applied to your closing costs


2. Schedule the Home Inspection

This is one of the most important steps.

  • Usually done within 7–14 days

  • Identifies issues with the home

  • Gives you a chance to negotiate repairs or credits

You can still back out (depending on your contract) if major problems are found.


3. Finalize Your Mortgage

Now your lender moves into full approval.

  • Submit any remaining documents

  • Lock in your interest rate (if not already done)

  • Loan goes through underwriting

Avoid making big financial changes during this time (no new loans, big purchases, or job changes).


4. Home Appraisal

Your lender will order an appraisal.

  • Confirms the home’s value matches the price

  • Protects both you and the lender

If the appraisal comes in low, you may need to renegotiate or cover the difference.


5. Title Search and Insurance

A title company checks for legal issues.

  • Ensures the property has no liens or ownership disputes

  • Title insurance protects you from future claims


6. Review Contingencies

These are your safety nets.

  • Inspection contingency

  • Financing contingency

  • Appraisal contingency

Once these are cleared, your commitment becomes stronger.


7. Final Walkthrough

Done a few days before closing.

  • Make sure the home is in agreed condition

  • Confirm repairs were completed

  • Check that nothing has changed


8. Closing Day

  • Sign all legal documents

  • Pay closing costs

  • Loan is funded

  • You receive the keys

At this point, the home is officially yours.


Timeline Overview

  • Inspection: 1–2 weeks

  • Appraisal + loan approval: 2–4 weeks

  • Closing: usually 30–45 days total


What Can Go Wrong?

  • Inspection reveals major issues

  • Appraisal comes in low

  • Financing delays or denials

  • Title problems

Most deals go through—but staying responsive and organized is key.


Bottom Line

After your offer is accepted, you move from winning the deal to protecting your investment.

 
 
 

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