What Happens After You Go Under Contract? A Step-by-Step Timeline

Finding the perfect home and getting your offer accepted is a huge milestone—but the journey doesn’t end there. Once you’re officially under contract, a lot of important steps still remain before you get the keys in your hand. At Embry Group Real Estate, we’re here to make the next phase of your homebuying journey smooth, informed, and stress-free.

Here’s what to expect after your offer is accepted:

1. Make an Offer—and Get It Accepted

Before you're officially under contract, your real estate agent will help you craft a strategic offer based on market trends and recent comparable sales. Whether you're dealing with a hot seller’s market or a more balanced environment, we’ll guide you through negotiations and counteroffers to help secure the best terms. Once the seller accepts your offer, the home goes under contract and the countdown to closing begins.

2. Schedule a Home Inspection

Most contracts include a home inspection contingency, which gives you the opportunity to have a licensed inspector evaluate the property. They’ll check for issues with the foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more.

If the inspection reveals no major concerns, you can confidently move forward. If problems arise, you’ll have the option to negotiate repairs or credits with the seller—or back out of the deal entirely if necessary. The inspection is one of the most important steps to protect your investment.

3. Finalize Your Mortgage

Even if you’ve been pre-approved or pre-qualified, now is the time to officially lock in your loan. You’ll work with your lender to choose the right loan type, interest rate, and repayment term. Whether you're considering a fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, FHA, VA, or conventional loan, this is where your financing becomes official.

We’ll stay connected with your lender throughout the process to make sure everything stays on track and on schedule.

4. Order a Home Appraisal

Your lender will arrange a home appraisal to verify that the property is worth the amount you’re borrowing. This protects both you and the lender by ensuring you’re not overpaying for the home.

If the appraisal comes back at or above the purchase price, you’re good to go. If it comes in lower, don’t panic—there are options. You may renegotiate the purchase price, bring additional funds to closing, or in some cases, walk away depending on the terms of your contract.

5. Complete the Paperwork

While not the most glamorous part of buying a home, the final paperwork is where everything becomes official. Your lender and title company will guide you through the documents, ensuring every form is signed, every condition is met, and everything is in compliance.

Once all the paperwork is complete and funds have been transferred, you become the legal owner of your new home.

Ready to Get to the Finish Line?

Going under contract is a major milestone, but knowing what happens next makes all the difference in feeling confident and prepared. With Embry Group Real Estate by your side, we’ll help you manage every step—from the offer to the keys—so you can focus on the excitement of your next chapter.

Have questions about the process or ready to start your journey? Reach out to schedule a consultation with our team today.