What Happens After You Accept an Offer on Your Home?

Published On: June 18, 2025|Categories: Real Estate|

Once you accept an offer on your home, the big decision is made—but the work isn’t over. There are still a number of steps that need to happen before you hand over the keys. Whether you’re selling in Jasper, Evansville, or anywhere in Dubois County, it’s important to understand the process after you accept an offer so you’re prepared for what comes next.

This guide explains the following:

The buyer deposits earnest money
Inspections and negotiations begin
The appraisal is ordered and completed
The buyer finalizes their financing
Title work and paperwork are completed
You prepare for the final walk-through and closing

Here’s a closer look at each.

The Buyer Deposits Earnest Money

Once you’ve signed the purchase agreement, the buyer will submit earnest money—a deposit that shows they’re serious about moving forward. This money is usually held in an escrow account by the title company or brokerage until closing.

The amount of earnest money is typically 1% to 3% of the sale price and will later be applied toward the buyer’s down payment or closing costs.

If the buyer backs out for a reason not covered in the contract, you may be entitled to keep the earnest money. If they back out for a valid reason (like an issue found during the inspection), the money is usually returned to the buyer.

Inspections and Negotiations Begin

The buyer will schedule a home inspection, usually within a week of accepting the offer. The inspector will examine the home’s structure, systems, and condition.

After the inspection, the buyer may request repairs or ask for a credit if any issues are uncovered. Here’s where your REALTOR® is key—they’ll help you evaluate:

Which repairs are reasonable
What to negotiate
Whether to offer credits instead of doing the work

In markets like Huntingburg or Ferdinand, where buyers are looking for value, these negotiations can be critical to keeping the deal on track.

The Appraisal Is Ordered and Completed

If the buyer is using a mortgage to purchase your home, their lender will require an appraisal to verify that the home is worth what they’ve offered to pay.

The appraiser is a third party hired by the lender who will assess the home’s value based on its condition and comparable sales in your area.

If the appraisal comes in at or above the contract price, the deal moves forward. If it comes in low, you and the buyer will need to negotiate—either lowering the price, having the buyer cover the difference, or a combination of both.

Your REALTOR can guide you through your options if this happens.

The Buyer Finalizes Their Financing

During this time, the buyer’s lender is working on underwriting the loan. They’ll review the buyer’s financial documents, credit history, employment, and all the information related to the home.

You don’t have to do much here—but it’s a good time to stay in touch with your agent and start preparing for your move.

Once the loan is fully approved, the buyer receives a clear to close and the deal is almost done.

Title Work and Paperwork Are Completed

While the loan is being finalized, the title company will perform a title search to make sure the property is free of liens, unpaid taxes, or legal disputes. This ensures the buyer gets a clean title when they purchase the home.

You’ll also be asked to provide:

Payoff information for your mortgage
A government-issued ID
A forwarding address
Any required HOA or utility info

Once all documents are collected and approved, the title company prepares for closing.

For questions about property records or title issues, you can also explore homeowner resources on IN.gov.

You Prepare for the Final Walk-Through and Closing

The buyer will do a final walk-through, usually 24–48 hours before closing. This gives them a chance to confirm that:

The home is still in the same condition as when they made the offer
Any agreed-upon repairs have been completed
The house is clean and free of personal belongings

Once that’s done, it’s time for closing day. You’ll meet at the title company (or sign remotely, depending on the arrangement) to complete the final paperwork, hand over the keys, and officially transfer ownership.

Funds from the sale—minus any mortgage payoff and closing costs—are typically wired to your account on the same day or the next business day.

FAQ About What Happens After Accepting an Offer

Check out these commonly asked questions about what happens after you accept an offer. If you don’t see your question here, please call our office and we’ll find you the answers you need.

Can the Buyer Back Out After the Offer Is Accepted?

Yes—but only under certain conditions. If the buyer backs out for a reason listed in the contract (like a failed inspection or denied financing), they may do so without penalty. Otherwise, they could forfeit their earnest money.

Do I Have to Fix Everything the Buyer Requests?

No. You can negotiate which repairs to make, offer credits instead, or decline requests altogether. Your REALTOR will help you decide what’s reasonable.

What If the Appraisal Comes In Low?

If the appraisal is lower than the offer price, the buyer’s lender won’t fund the full loan amount. You and the buyer will need to renegotiate the price or financing terms to keep the deal alive.

When Should I Start Packing?

You should begin packing once the offer is accepted, especially after the inspection period ends. Just make sure the house stays clean and accessible for the appraiser and walk-through.

How Long Does It Take to Close After Accepting an Offer?

Most closings in Indiana take 30 to 45 days after accepting an offer. The timeline can vary based on loan type, repairs, and how quickly inspections and paperwork are completed.

Once you accept an offer, your REALTOR will help guide you through every step until the keys are handed over. With the right support and preparation, selling your home in Dubois County or any surrounding community can be a smooth and rewarding experience.

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