What Happens After Your Offer is Accepted? Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re wondering what happens after you make an offer on a house or trying to understand the timeline after an offer is accepted, this guide breaks down every major step you’ll face on the way to your new front door.

You’ve Made an Offer—Now What?

Once the seller accepts your offer, the home officially goes “under contract.” But don’t relax just yet—this triggers a series of important next steps, including inspections, appraisals, and final loan approvals.

If you haven’t already submitted a pre-approval letter from your mortgage lender, you’ll want to do that immediately. From here on, timing and documentation matter.

Let’s walk through what happens after an offer is accepted on a house.

Step 1: Home Inspection and Negotiations

A home inspection is one of the first things you’ll schedule. You’ll hire a certified inspector to assess the property’s condition and flag any hidden issues—from roof damage to plumbing concerns.

Here’s what you should know:

• Inspections typically happen within 5–10 days of the offer being accepted.
• If major issues come up, your real estate agent can help renegotiate terms or request repairs.
• In some cases, you may decide to walk away and get your earnest money refunded.

This stage is where many buyers start to feel unsure, but rest assured, it’s normal. Your agent and inspector will guide you through it.

Step 2: The Appraisal Process

If you’re using a mortgage, your lender will require a home appraisal. This step ensures the home’s value supports the agreed-upon purchase price.

Here’s why this matters:

• If the home appraises low, you may need to renegotiate or cover the gap yourself.
• If the value meets or exceeds the offer, the loan process continues smoothly.

Wondering how exactly appraisals work, why they matter, and what to do if the value comes in low? Read our full guide to home appraisals to get prepared.

Step 3: Finalizing Your Mortgage

Even if you’re already pre-approved, this is when your mortgage lender does a deeper dive into your finances to officially underwrite the loan.

You’ll submit updated documents like:

• Bank statements
• Tax returns
• Employment verification
• Purchase agreement

At this point, your loan file moves into underwriting. Keep communication open and avoid big financial changes (like taking out a car loan or switching jobs), as they can affect approval.

For a full breakdown of the mortgage process, explore our complete mortgage guide.

Step 4: Completing the Paperwork and Title Search

Now it’s time for your title company or closing attorney to step in. They’ll conduct a title search to ensure there are no ownership disputes, unpaid taxes, or legal issues tied to the property.

During this stage:

• You’ll review and sign numerous disclosures
• You’ll need to secure homeowners insurance
• Your lender will finalize the loan disclosure, detailing your closing costs

Don’t be alarmed by the paperwork, it can get overwhelming. However, your agent and title team will walk you through every signature.

Step 5: What to Expect at Closing

You’re almost there. A few days before your scheduled closing date, you’ll do a final walkthrough of the home to ensure it’s in the agreed-upon condition.

On closing day:

• You’ll sign the mortgage and ownership documents
• Pay your closing costs and any remaining down payment
• Receive the keys to your new home

Once the paperwork is processed and the funds are transferred, you officially close on your new home—congratulations!

Before you pop the champagne, remember there are still a few responsibilities, including understanding your homeowner tax obligations.

After Closing: Welcome to Homeownership

Now that you’re a homeowner, your next steps include:

• Setting up utilities and change-of-address services
• Keeping track of mortgage payments and insurance renewals
• Planning your first upgrades or maintenance tasks

This may be the end of the buying process, but it’s just the beginning of your journey as a homeowner.

Still have questions like what happens after you put an offer on a house or what next after accepting an offer? You’re not alone. The post-offer phase can feel overwhelming, but with the right support and information, you’ll move through it confidently.