You’ve found the one, made an offer, and gotten that exciting call — “Your offer’s been accepted!”
It’s one of the best moments in the homebuying journey. But what happens next?
Going under contract doesn’t mean the process is over — it means the real work begins. Between now and closing, several important steps take place to protect both the buyer and the seller. Knowing what to expect can help you stay calm, organized, and confident as you move toward getting the keys.
1. The Earnest Money Deposit
Once your offer is accepted, you’ll typically submit an earnest money deposit — a good faith payment that shows you’re serious about buying the home.
This money is usually held in an escrow account and later applied toward your down payment or closing costs.
Tip: Make sure you meet the deposit deadline listed in your contract to keep the deal on track.
2. Schedule Your Inspections
Next comes the home inspection — your opportunity to take a closer look at the property’s condition.
A professional inspector will check the structure, roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, and more.
If the inspection reveals issues, you can negotiate repairs or credits with the seller, or in some cases, even walk away if the problems are too big.
Smart move: Attend the inspection if possible — it’s the best way to learn about your new home firsthand.
3. Appraisal and Loan Approval
If you’re financing your purchase, your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s market value.
The appraiser ensures that the price you’ve agreed to matches what the home is actually worth.
If the appraisal comes in low, you and your agent may need to renegotiate the price or make up the difference in cash.
At the same time, your lender will be finalizing your loan approval, verifying your income, assets, and credit before issuing the final “clear to close.”
4. Title Search and Insurance
Behind the scenes, a title company or attorney conducts a title search to make sure there are no legal issues — such as liens, ownership disputes, or unpaid taxes — attached to the property.
You’ll also purchase title insurance to protect yourself and your lender from future claims against the home’s ownership.
5. The Final Walk-Through
A day or two before closing, you’ll do a final walk-through of the property. This is your last chance to confirm that any agreed-upon repairs were completed and that the home’s condition hasn’t changed since the inspection.
Pro tip: Bring a copy of your contract and inspection report to verify everything matches what was promised.
6. Closing Day — Getting the Keys!
The big day has arrived!
At the closing table, you’ll sign the final paperwork, pay your remaining down payment and closing costs, and officially transfer ownership.
Once everything is recorded with the county, you’ll receive the best part of the entire process — the keys to your new home!
Welcome home — you did it.
The Bottom Line
From offer to closing, the under-contract phase can feel like a whirlwind of paperwork, deadlines, and details. But with a great real estate agent, lender, and closing team by your side, you’ll move through each step with confidence.
Buying a home isn’t just a transaction — it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Understanding what happens between the offer and the keys helps you make the journey smoother and more rewarding.
Thinking about buying or selling?
Let’s talk about your goals and create a clear plan to get you from offer to keys — stress-free and informed every step of the way.
