What happens after I accept an offer on my house?
Reviewed August 2026 by Shannon Miles Group
After you accept an offer, the transaction moves through several stages: the contract becomes effective once all parties have signed, earnest money is deposited by the buyer, the buyer conducts inspections and due diligence during the option period, you negotiate any agreed repairs, the buyer arranges financing and an appraisal, title and survey are reviewed, and you prepare for closing. The final steps include a buyer walk-through, signing documents at the title company, funding, and handing over possession.
Your seller-side contract-to-closing roadmap.
Accepting an offer is a major milestone, but there are still several steps between the signed contract and closing day. Here is what typically happens, in a general sequence. Every transaction is different, and the specific order depends on your contract terms.
The contract-to-close timeline
1. Contract execution and effective date
Once you and the buyer have signed the contract, the effective date is established. This date starts the clock on all deadlines including option periods, financing commitments, and closing. Your agent will track every deadline closely.
2. Earnest money and option fee
The buyer deposits earnest money with a title company or escrow agent within a set number of days, typically 3. They also pay the option fee directly to you or as directed in the contract. These funds show the buyer's commitment to the transaction.
3. Buyer due diligence and inspections
During the option period (typically 7 to 10 days in Texas), the buyer schedules inspections. These may include a general home inspection, plus specialized inspections for pests, roof, HVAC, foundation, septic, well, or other systems depending on the property. You are generally required to provide reasonable access for inspections.
4. Repair negotiations
After inspections, the buyer may request repairs or credits through a repair amendment. You can agree, counter, or decline. This negotiation can happen during or after the option period, depending on your contract. Most sellers and buyers reach a reasonable agreement on necessary repairs.
5. Financing and appraisal
The buyer applies for financing and the lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value matches the contract price. If the appraisal comes in low, the parties may renegotiate or the buyer may cover the gap. The contract includes a financing deadline by which the buyer must have loan approval.
6. Title and survey review
The title company performs a title search to verify there are no liens, encumbrances, or ownership issues. If a new survey is ordered, it will confirm property boundaries and identify any encroachments or easement issues. You may need to address any title or survey objections raised by the buyer.
7. Seller document requests
The buyer may request various documents including HOA documents, utility bills, tax records, well water test results, septic maintenance records, and any permits or warranties. Having these ready in advance speeds up the process.
8. Agreed repairs and preparation
If you agreed to make repairs, schedule them before closing. Keep receipts and invoices. Also begin preparing for your move: packing, changing your address, and arranging moving services.
9. Closing preparation
Your agent and the title company coordinate the closing date, time, and location. You will receive a closing disclosure that itemizes the final numbers: sale price, credits, costs, and your net proceeds. Review it carefully and ask questions before the closing meeting.
10. Final walk-through
The buyer typically does a final walk-through within 24 hours of closing to verify the property is in the agreed condition and that any agreed repairs have been completed. The home should be clean, empty of your personal belongings, and in the condition specified in the contract.
11. Closing and funding
At closing, you sign the deed and other transfer documents at the title company. The buyer signs their loan documents. The title company facilitates the transfer and disburses funds. Once the deed is recorded and funds are released, the transaction is complete.
12. Possession
Possession transfers according to your contract. It may happen at closing, after closing with a lease-back agreement, or on a specific date. Keys, garage door openers, and any other access items are turned over according to the agreement.
Important notes
Not every transaction follows this exact sequence. Some steps may overlap, and the specific timeline depends on your contract terms. Also, accepting an offer does not guarantee the transaction will close. Buyers have termination rights during the option period, and financing or appraisal issues can derail a deal even after the option period ends. Your agent will help you navigate each stage and respond to any issues that arise.
This guide does not interpret termination rights or specific contract provisions. Questions about your rights and obligations under a specific contract should be directed to a real estate attorney.
From contract to close in Northeast Texas.
In Northeast Texas, the typical timeline from accepted offer to closing is 30 to 45 days for a financed purchase. Cash transactions can close in 7 to 14 days. However, rural properties with well and septic inspections, survey requirements, or special financing can take longer.
Local title companies in Paris, Sherman, and surrounding communities handle the closing process. Your agent will coordinate with the title company, lender, and all parties to keep the transaction on track. In our experience, organized sellers who have their documents ready and respond promptly to requests help the process run smoothly.
Staying on track after accepting an offer.
- Respond promptly. Delays in responding to repair requests, document requests, or other deadlines can slow the process or risk the deal.
- Keep the home showable. The buyer may want to show the home to family or do the final walk-through. Keep it clean and ready.
- Gather documents early. Have your HOA documents, utility bills, tax records, and repair receipts ready. Proactive organization prevents last-minute scrambling.
- Do not schedule movers before closing. Closing dates can shift. Wait until the loan funds before finalizing moving plans.
- Stay in communication with your agent. Your agent is your primary contact throughout the process. Ask questions as they come up.
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Under contract and not sure what comes next?
Call us or stop by the office at 2322 Lamar Ave. in Paris. We will walk you through every step from here to closing.