What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted

Buying a home is exciting, and having your offer accepted is a huge milestone. But many buyers don’t realize that this is just the beginning of a critical process. Understanding what happens next can reduce stress, prevent surprises, and keep your transaction on track.

1. Earnest Money Deposit

Once your offer is accepted, you’ll typically submit an earnest money deposit (EMD). This is a good-faith payment showing the seller that you’re serious.

The deposit is usually 1–3% of the purchase price.
It is held in escrow until closing.
If you follow contract terms, this money goes toward your down payment.

Tip: Ensure you understand the conditions under which your earnest money could be refundable.

2. Home Inspection

Next, most buyers schedule a home inspection. This is your opportunity to uncover hidden problems before finalizing the sale.

Inspections cover structural elements, plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, and more.
If issues are found, you can negotiate repairs, credits, or price adjustments.

Pro Tip: Always attend the inspection if possible. Seeing issues firsthand helps you make informed decisions.

3. Appraisal

If you’re financing your purchase, your lender will order an appraisal to ensure the home’s value supports the loan.

If the home appraises at or above the offer price, the loan proceeds normally.
If it comes in lower, you may need to renegotiate the price or increase your down payment.

Understanding the appraisal process can help prevent surprises at closing.

4. Title Search and Insurance

A title company will conduct a title search to verify that the property is legally transferable and free of liens or disputes.

Title insurance protects you and your lender in case an issue arises later.
Any discrepancies or claims must be resolved before closing.

This step ensures your ownership rights are secure.

5. Finalizing Financing

During this period, your lender will complete final underwriting, reviewing your income, credit, and documents.

You may need to provide additional paperwork.
Once approved, your lender issues a clear-to-close, meaning you’re ready for the final step.

Tip: Stay responsive with your lender—delays can push back your closing date.

6. Closing Preparation

Before the closing date:

Review your closing disclosure carefully (includes final costs, fees, and loan details).
Schedule a final walkthrough to confirm the home’s condition matches your agreement.
Arrange funds for closing (down payment, closing costs).

The goal is to confirm that everything is in order for a smooth handoff.

7. Closing Day

On closing day:

You’ll sign all legal documents, mortgage agreements, and title paperwork.
The seller receives payment, and the home officially transfers to you.
Once recorded, you receive the keys and ownership—congratulations!

Tip: Bring a photo ID, checkbook (or wire transfer info), and a list of questions.

Final Thoughts

Getting your offer accepted is exciting, but the post-acceptance steps are just as critical. From inspections and appraisals to financing and final walkthroughs, each stage requires attention to detail and timely action.

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Tina Jingru Sui 隋静儒

Associate Broker | Team Leader of TJS Team, Keller Williams

Serving Metro Atlanta — Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Duluth, Suwanee, Buford, and beyond