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 very structured process. Knowing what happens next helps sellers stay calm, prepared, and in control.

Here is what unfolds after you say yes.

Step 1: Escrow Opens

Once the offer is accepted and signed, escrow is opened. This neutral third party holds funds and documents while all terms of the contract are completed.

The buyer typically deposits their earnest money within a few days. This shows commitment and keeps the transaction moving.

Step 2: Buyer’s Due Diligence Begins

This is the buyer’s investigation period.

It usually includes:

• Home inspection

• Pest inspection

• Review of disclosures and reports

• Any additional inspections required by the contract

This is when most renegotiations happen. Requests are normal. They are not a sign the deal is falling apart.

Step 3: Appraisal Is Ordered

If the buyer is using financing, the lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value.

If the appraisal comes in at value, the deal continues smoothly.If it comes in low, options include renegotiation, buyer cash adjustment, or contract cancellation depending on terms.

Step 4: Loan Approval Moves Forward

While inspections and appraisal are happening, the buyer’s lender finalizes underwriting.

This includes:

• Income and asset verification

• Credit review

• Final loan approval

As a seller, this step is mostly behind the scenes, but it is critical to the timeline.

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 if they cancel without cause.

Step 6: Final Walk-Through

Shortly before closing, the buyer completes a final walk-through to confirm the home is in the same condition and agreed-upon repairs are completed.

This is not another inspection. It is a verification step.

Step 7: Signing and Closing

Both parties sign final documents.The buyer’s lender funds the loan.Escrow records the transaction.

Once recording is confirmed, the sale is official.

Step 8: Keys Are Released

After recording, keys are released to the buyer and funds are disbursed to the seller.

The home officially changes hands.

Why Understanding the Process Matters

Most deals do not fall apart because of big issues. They fall apart because of mismanaged expectations.

Knowing what is normal versus what is concerning helps sellers stay confident and make smart decisions at each stage.

Bottom Line

Accepting an offer is not the end.It is a carefully timed sequence of steps designed to protect both sides.

When you understand the process, the waiting feels purposeful, not stressful.