Step 9: What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted 

1Stay on Top of Your Paperwork 

Once your offer is accepted, things move quickly. You will receive a list of documents to provide to your real estate agent, lender, or escrow officer. This usually includes income statements, bank records, identification, and other personal information. Respond as soon as possible so your loan can move forward. This step sets the tone for everything that follows. 

2 Earnest Money and Contract Contingencies 

After acceptance, you will need to submit your earnest money deposit, usually within a few days. This shows the seller you are serious. You will also enter your contingency periods. These give you time to inspect the home, review disclosures, complete an appraisal, and get full loan approval. If any major issues come up, your contingencies allow you to back out or renegotiate before you are fully committed. 

3Home Inspection and Possible Repairs 

Hire a licensed home inspector to check the property from top to bottom. They will review the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, heating and cooling, appliances, windows, and more. If they find serious issues, you can ask the seller to make repairs or give you a credit. In some cases, you may decide to cancel the contract. The inspection gives you peace of mind and protects your investment. 

4Special Property Inspections and Local Requirements

Some homes require additional inspections, certifications, or documents. These are often based on the type of property, the loan you are using, or the location of the home. Your lender or agent will let you know which ones apply to you. Here are a few of the most common: 

• Termite or Pest Inspection 
  • Many states, especially in warmer climates, require a termite or pest inspection. These inspections look for damage caused by wood-destroying insects like termites. This is often required for VA loans and may be needed for FHA and USDA loans too. 
• Property Survey
  • A property survey maps the land and shows property lines, fences, driveways, and easements. It helps confirm there are no encroachments or disputes. Some states or lenders require a new survey if none exists or if recent improvements were made.
• Septic System Certification 
  • If the home uses a septic system, your lender may require a certification to ensure it is functioning properly. A licensed inspector will check for leaks, proper drainage, and maintenance. The seller may need to pump or repair the system before closing. 
• On-Site Well Water Testing or Shared Well Agreement 
  • If the property relies on a private well for water, testing may be required to confirm the water is safe to drink. Tests usually check for bacteria and nitrate levels. If the well is shared, your lender may request a formal agreement outlining usage and maintenance responsibilities. 
• Swimming Pool Barrier Regulations
  • In many areas, pool safety barriers are required by law. These regulations help prevent accidents and protect young children. If the home has a pool, an appraiser or inspector may flag missing gates, fencing, or locks. The seller may need to make updates before the loan can close. 
    
    These inspections are important for health, safety, and compliance. They also protect you from future issues that may be expensive to fix. 

5Appraisal and Loan Approval 

Your lender will order a home appraisal to make sure the value supports the loan amount. If the appraised value is lower than your purchase price, you may need to renegotiate or pay the difference in cash. Meanwhile, your lender is reviewing all your paperwork for final loan approval. Once everything checks out, you will get the green light — also known as “clear to close.” 

6Title Search and Title Insurance 

A title company or attorney will perform a title search to make sure no one else has a legal claim to the home. They will look for unpaid taxes, liens, or ownership issues. If problems show up, they must be resolved before closing. Once the title is clean, you will purchase title insurance to protect you and your lender from future claims. 

7Homeowners Insurance 

You must have a homeowners insurance policy in place before closing. It covers you for events like fire, theft, or weather damage. It also protects your lender’s investment. Shop around to compare prices and coverage. Choose a policy that covers replacement cost, not just market value. Your lender will ask for proof of insurance well before the closing date. 

8Closing Disclosure and Final Review 

At least three business days before closing, you will receive a Closing Disclosure. This document shows your interest rate, monthly payment, closing costs, loan terms, and total cash needed to close. Review it carefully and ask questions if anything looks off. If changes are needed, let your lender know right away. This gives you time to fix any errors before signing. 

9Final WalkThrough

Just before closing — usually within 24 hours — you will do a final walkthrough of the home. This is your chance to confirm the home is still in the same condition and that any agreedupon repairs were completed. If something seems off, let your agent know immediately. You want to avoid last-minute surprises. 

10Closing Day 

On closing day, you will sign a large stack of paperwork. This includes your loan documents, deed, and settlement statement. Bring a valid photo ID and a certified or wired payment for your down payment and closing costs. Once everything is signed and recorded, the home is officially yours. You get the keys and can finally celebrate. 

11After Closing 

Congratulations — you are a homeowner! But a few things still need your attention: 

• Set up your utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) 
• Forward your mail and update your address 
• Store your closing documents in a safe place 
• Set reminders for mortgage and insurance payments 
• Make a move-in checklist and start settling in 

These steps help make your transition into homeownership smooth and stress-free.