What Happens After You Accept an Offer?

Getting an offer on your home is exciting—but it’s just the beginning of the process. After you accept, there are still several important steps before you reach the closing table. From inspections to appraisals, contingencies to paperwork, it’s critical to know what to expect so there are no surprises. At Onsite Real Estate Group, we guide sellers across East Pierce County through every stage of the transaction. Here’s what happens next. Escrow Is Opened Once an offer is accepted and signed by both parties, the transaction officially moves into escrow. This neutral third party handles the exchange of documents and funds to ensure everything is legal, accurate, and secure. You’ll deposit any agreed-upon items (like HOA docs or receipts for repairs), and the buyer will usually submit their earnest money. Buyer Orders a Home Inspection Most offers include a home inspection contingency. The buyer hires a licensed inspector to evaluate your property’s structure, systems, and safety. After the inspection, they may request repairs, a credit, or price adjustment—or move forward as-is. Your agent will help you review and negotiate any findings. Appraisal Is Completed by the Lender If the buyer is using financing, their lender will schedule a home appraisal to ensure the property’s value supports the loan. If the appraisal comes in low, the buyer may renegotiate or need to cover the difference out of pocket. A strong agent will help navigate this without derailing the deal. Final Loan Approval & Contingency Removal After inspections and appraisal, the buyer works with their lender to finalize their mortgage. Once loan approval is issued and all contingencies are removed, the deal moves forward toward closing. This is when the sale becomes much more secure—and you can begin preparing for your move. Title & Escrow Wrap Up Final Steps The escrow and title companies work behind the scenes to: Confirm legal ownership Verify taxes and liens Prepare the deed and closing paperwork Schedule the signing appointment Once everything checks out, you’ll sign your seller documents and wait for closing day. ‍ 83% of home sales include a home inspection contingency Appraisal issues affect nearly 1 in 10 financed offers The average escrow period in Washington is 30–45 days We’ll Guide You from Offer to Close Check your home value using our Home Value Estimator . Trends & Insights . Selling Tips The Best Time to Sell a Home in Washington: 2025 Outlook How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home in Pierce County? Pierce County Housing Market: What Stability Really Looks Like After the Frenzy 5 Simple Improvements That Can Help Your Home Sell Faster The Best Time to Sell a Home in Washington: 2025 Outlook Recommended For You . Insights How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home in Pierce County? NEW Selling Tips Top Mistakes Sellers Make That Delay Closings Selling Tips The Best Time to Sell a Home in Washington: 2025 Outlook Market Trends Pierce County Housing Market: What Stability Really Looks Like After the Frenzy Market Trends Where Are Buyers Coming From in Pierce County in 2025? View All