You found the perfect home. You made the offer. And—it was accepted!

But the journey isn’t over just yet.

Many buyers assume the hard part is done once the offer is accepted, but there’s still a lot that needs to happen before you get the keys. This behind-the-scenes look breaks down exactly what to expect, so you can move forward with confidence.

1. Earnest Money Deposit Is Made

Shortly after acceptance, you'll submit your earnest money deposit, which shows the seller you're serious about purchasing. This amount is typically held in escrow and later applied toward your closing costs or down payment.

2. The Home Goes Into Escrow

Once your offer is accepted, the home is considered “under contract” and enters escrow—a neutral third party that holds funds and documents until all conditions of the sale are met.

3. Schedule a Home Inspection

Even if the home looks perfect, a home inspection is a must. An inspector will assess the condition of the property, identifying any repairs or safety concerns. If major issues are found, you may renegotiate or request repairs before moving forward.

4. Appraisal Ordered by Your Lender

If you’re using financing, your lender will order a home appraisal to determine the market value. This ensures the home is worth what you're paying. If the appraisal comes in lower than the offer, it could impact your loan terms.

5. Secure Final Mortgage Approval

You may have been pre-approved, but now it’s time for final underwriting. The lender will verify your income, debt, credit, and the property itself before issuing a “clear to close.”

6. Title Search and Insurance

A title company will conduct a search to make sure there are no liens or ownership disputes tied to the property. You'll also purchase title insurance to protect yourself from future claims.

7. Final Walkthrough

Before closing, you’ll do a final walkthrough to confirm the home is in the expected condition and any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.

8. Closing Day!

Finally, you’ll sign all the documents, pay your closing costs, and receive the keys. Congratulations—you’re officially a homeowner!

The Bottom Line

Getting your offer accepted is a big milestone, but it’s only the beginning of the final stretch. Understanding what happens next helps you stay prepared, avoid delays, and make your move with confidence.

Have questions about the closing process?

Let’s walk through it together—step by step.