What Happens After You Accept an Offer (Step-by-Step)

Accepting an offer feels like the finish line. In reality, it is the start of a structured process designed to protect both buyer and seller.

Knowing what comes next helps sellers stay calm, confident, and in control all the way to closing.

Step 1: Escrow Is Opened

Once the offer is signed, escrow is opened with a neutral third party.

At this stage:

• The buyer submits their earnest money deposit

• Key dates and deadlines are set

• Documents begin moving between all parties

This officially starts the transaction clock.

Step 2: Buyer’s Due Diligence Period

The buyer investigates the home.

This typically includes:

• Home inspection

• Pest or termite inspection

• Review of seller disclosures

• Any additional inspections outlined in the contract

Requests for repairs or credits are common here. They are part of the process, not a red flag.

Step 3: Appraisal Is Ordered

If the buyer is financing, the lender orders an appraisal.

Possible outcomes:

• Appraisal meets value and the deal continues

• Appraisal comes in low and triggers renegotiation

• Buyer brings additional cash or exits based on contract terms

This step protects the lender and influences final pricing conversations.

Step 4: Loan Underwriting Moves Forward

While inspections and appraisal are happening, the buyer’s loan goes through underwriting.

This includes:

• Income and asset verification

• Credit review

• Final loan approval

Most of this happens behind the scenes, but delays here can affect timelines.

Step 5: Contingencies Are Removed

Once inspections, appraisal, and financing are approved, the buyer removes contingencies.

This is a major milestone.

At this point:

• The buyer’s deposit is typically at risk

• The deal becomes much more secure

This is when sellers can breathe a little easier.

Step 6: Final Walk-Through

Shortly before closing, the buyer completes a final walk-through.

They confirm:

• The home is in the agreed-upon condition

• Repairs were completed as promised

• No new damage has occurred

This is not a second inspection, just a verification step.

Step 7: Signing and Funding

Both parties sign final documents.

Then:

• The buyer’s lender releases funds

• Escrow prepares for recording

Timing here depends on lender and county processing.

Step 8: Recording and Closing

Once the transaction records:

• Ownership officially transfers

• Funds are disbursed

• The sale is complete

This is the moment the home legally changes hands.

Step 9: Keys Are Released

After recording is confirmed:

• The buyer receives the keys

• The seller receives sale proceeds

The transaction is officially finished.

Why This Process Matters

Most deals do not fall apart because of big surprises. They fall apart because expectations were not aligned.

Understanding what is normal at each stage helps sellers respond confidently instead of emotionally.

Bottom Line

Accepting an offer is not the end.It is a step-by-step process with clear milestones.

When you know what comes next, the waiting feels purposeful, not stressful.