“What Happens After You Accept an Offer?”

Congratulations — you’ve accepted an offer on your home! But while that’s an exciting milestone, it’s not the finish line just yet. Many important steps happen between “offer accepted” and “sold.” Understanding the process helps you stay prepared, avoid surprises, and ensure a smooth closing.

1. The Home Goes Into Escrow

Once both parties sign the purchase agreement, your home enters escrow — a neutral third party holds the funds and paperwork until all conditions are met. This ensures that both buyer and seller fulfill their contractual obligations before the sale becomes final.

2. The Buyer Schedules an Inspection

Most offers include a home inspection contingency, allowing the buyer to have a professional inspect the property for issues such as structural damage, plumbing leaks, or electrical problems.If the inspection reveals major issues, the buyer may:

• Request repairs,

• Ask for a credit or price reduction, or

• In some cases, back out of the deal.

Your realtor can guide you through negotiations to keep the sale on track.

3. The Appraisal Takes Place

If the buyer is financing the purchase, their lender will order an appraisal to confirm that the home’s value supports the loan amount.If the appraisal comes in lower than expected, your realtor can help renegotiate the price or explore options to bridge the gap.

4. Contingencies Must Be Cleared

In most cases, the sale is contingent on factors such as:

• The buyer securing financing

• A satisfactory inspection and appraisal

• The buyer selling their current home (if applicable)

Once these conditions are met, the contingencies are officially released, bringing you closer to closing.

5. Title Work and Final Paperwork

The title company or attorney will verify that the property has a clear title — meaning no legal claims, unpaid taxes, or liens. You’ll also review and sign documents confirming the agreed terms of the sale.

6. Final Walkthrough

A day or two before closing, the buyer will do a final walkthrough to make sure the property is in the agreed-upon condition and that any negotiated repairs were completed.

7. Closing Day

Once everything checks out, it’s time to sign the final documents, transfer ownership, and hand over the keys. You’ll receive your proceeds (after closing costs and any mortgage payoff) — marking the official end of the sale.

Final Thoughts

Accepting an offer is just the beginning of the final phase in selling your home. With a knowledgeable realtor guiding you through inspections, appraisals, and paperwork, you can move from acceptance to closing with confidence — and celebrate your successful sale with peace of mind.