So, you’ve received an offer on your home—and after careful review, you’ve said yes. Congratulations! 🎉 But what happens next? Many sellers assume the hard part is over once the contract is signed, but in reality, this is where the real work begins.

Let’s walk through what happens after you accept an offer, so you can feel confident and prepared every step of the way.

✅ Step 1: The Contract Is Signed

Once you and the buyer have both signed the purchase agreement, it becomes a legally binding contract. This includes all the agreed-upon terms such as price, closing date, contingencies, and timelines.

🔍 Pro Tip: Double-check that all terms (repairs, appliances included, earnest money, etc.) are clearly outlined.

💵 Step 2: Earnest Money Deposit

The buyer will typically submit earnest money within a few days of contract acceptance. This deposit (usually 1–3% of the purchase price) is held in escrow and shows the buyer is serious about the transaction.

📌 If the deal falls through for a reason not protected by a contingency, the buyer could forfeit this deposit.

🔎 Step 3: The Inspection Period

Buyers usually have 5–10 days to conduct a home inspection. They may bring in professionals to evaluate the roof, HVAC, plumbing, foundation, and more.

Afterward, they may:

• Accept the home as-is

• Request repairs or credits

• Back out of the deal (if their inspection contingency allows it)

🛠 Be ready to negotiate on inspection findings. A great agent helps you avoid giving up too much.

🏦 Step 4: Appraisal & Loan Approval

If the buyer is financing the purchase, their lender will order a home appraisal to ensure the price aligns with the home’s value.

If the appraisal comes in low:

• The buyer may ask you to lower the price

• They might cover the gap out of pocket

• Or the deal could fall through if no agreement is reached

Simultaneously, the buyer is going through underwriting to get full loan approval. This step can take 2–4 weeks.

💬 Staying responsive to requests from the lender or title company keeps things moving smoothly.

📝 Step 5: Title Search & Escrow Process

The title company will:

• Run a title search to ensure the home is free of legal claims or liens

• Begin preparing all closing documents

If issues arise (like unpaid taxes or old liens), they must be cleared before closing.

📂 This is also when sellers typically provide HOA documents, property disclosures, and any repair receipts.

📆 Step 6: Final Walkthrough & Closing Day

A day or two before closing, the buyer will do a final walkthrough to confirm the home is in the agreed-upon condition. This isn’t another inspection—it’s just a last look.

Then comes closing day! You’ll:

• Sign final documents

• Hand over keys and remotes

• Receive funds (typically via wire or check after escrow closes)

🏁 Once the county records the deed transfer, the home is officially sold!

🎉 Final Thoughts

Accepting an offer is an exciting milestone—but it’s just the beginning of a detailed process. With the right guidance, you’ll move from “Yes!” to “SOLD!” without the stress.

Ready to Sell with Confidence?

At Sold Realty Group, we guide you through every step—from pricing and staging to negotiations and closing. Let’s make your next move smooth and successful.

📞 (480) 309-4322
📧 [email protected]
🌐 soldrealtygroupaz.com