Your Offer Got Accepted. Now What?

Every contract is different, and your exact deadlines will come from your purchase agreement, lender, and title company. But most buyers can expect a process that looks something like this.

Timelines vary by contract, loan type, title company, and local process. Always follow your contract deadlines and your lender and title instructions.

After your offer is accepted, one of the first things that usually needs to happen is depositing your earnest money. This money shows the seller you are serious and is usually credited toward your closing costs or down payment at closing.

Buyers should pay close attention to the deadline. Missing this step can create problems early in the transaction.

The inspection period is your chance to learn more about the home before moving forward. You hire an inspector — not the seller’s inspector — and the report will probably be long.

That does not mean the house is falling apart.

Inspection reports often include a mix of major concerns, small repairs, maintenance items, safety notes, and normal wear. The key is knowing what matters and what is reasonable to negotiate.

If you are using a loan, your lender will usually order an appraisal. The appraiser’s job is to give the lender an opinion of value so they can confirm the home supports the loan amount.

If the appraisal comes in at value, you usually move forward.

If it comes in low, you may still have options. A low appraisal is not automatically the end of the deal, but it does need to be handled carefully.

Once you are under contract, your lender will continue reviewing your finances. This can include income, employment, credit, bank statements, debts, assets, and documentation.

This is not the time to make major financial moves.

While you are working through inspections and financing, the title company is doing important behind-the-scenes work.

Title checks the property’s ownership history to make sure it can be transferred properly. Escrow helps hold funds and coordinate the documents and money involved in closing.

Homeowners insurance is one of those items buyers sometimes forget until the lender asks for proof. Do not wait until the last minute.

You will also need to plan for utilities so there is not a gap when you take possession.

The final walk-through usually happens 24–48 hours before closing. This is your chance to confirm the home is in the expected condition before you sign.

This is not a full inspection. It is a final check.

Closing day is when you sign the final paperwork. Depending on the contract, lender, title company, and recording process, you may not receive keys the exact second you finish signing. Your agent and title company can help explain the timing.

Here is the short version of what you need to stay on top of once your offer is accepted.

Download the free “After Your Offer Is Accepted” buyer checklist so you know what to expect during the next 30–45 days.

Getting your offer accepted is a big step. But it is not the finish line.

The next 30–45 days are where the details matter: deadlines, inspection decisions, appraisal, underwriting, title, final walk-through, and closing.

You do not need to have every answer on day one. You just need to know what is coming, respond quickly, and have the right people helping you through the process. If you want more buyer resources, browse the buyer resources page, look up any term you’re unsure about in the real estate glossary, or contact Dana with a question.