What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted on a House?

When your offer is accepted on a house, it’s exciting — and sometimes a little overwhelming. Most buyers think the hard part is over. In reality, this is when the real process begins.

If you’re wondering what happens after your offer is accepted on a house, here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect next.

1. After Your Offer Is Accepted on a House: Schedule the Inspection

In Massachusetts, sellers are required to allow a home inspection. Once your offer is accepted, this usually happens quickly.

A home inspection typically reviews:

• Roof and structure

• Heating and cooling systems

• Electrical and plumbing

• Foundation and major systems

This isn’t just about “peace of mind.” It’s your chance to really get to know the house and understand how it functions.

If issues come up, you may:

• Renegotiate by asking for repairs and/or requesting a credit

• Move forward as-is

• Or walk away

Source: Massachusetts General Law Chapter 142A

2. Sign the Purchase and Sale Agreement (P&S)

After inspection and negotiations are complete, attorneys draft the Purchase & Sale agreement.

This document outlines:

• Final purchase price

• Deposit amount

• Closing date

• Contingencies

• Title conditions

Once signed, the transaction becomes more binding. At this point, an additional deposit is due.

Source: What to Ask Before You Hire a Realtor | Milton MA Real Estate – Becky Davis

3. Apply for Your Mortgage (If Financing)

If you’re using financing, you will need to submit a formal mortgage application after the P&S is signed.

Within three business days of applying, you’ll receive a Loan Estimate outlining:

• Interest rate

• Monthly payment

• Closing costs

Your lender will then begin underwriting.

Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Loan Estimate Guidelines

4. Appraisal

Your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the property value supports the loan amount.

If the home appraises at or above purchase price, you’re good to go.

If it comes in lower, you may need to:

• Renegotiate

• Cover the gap

• Or restructure financing

5. Title Search & Final Mortgage Commitment

A title search ensures the seller has clear ownership and that there are no liens or legal issues attached to the property.

At the same time, your lender will issue a final mortgage commitment once underwriting is complete.

This is a big milestone — it means your loan is approved.

Source: What Is a Clear Title on a Home and Why It Matters for Buyers and Sellers – Becky Davis

6. Final Walkthrough

Usually 24–48 hours before closing, you’ll do a final walkthrough.

This confirms:

• The home is in agreed condition

• Any negotiated repairs were completed

• Nothing has changed since the inspection

7. Closing Day

On closing day, you’ll:

• Sign your loan documents

• Transfer funds

• Receive the keys

And just like that — you’re a homeowner.

Final Thoughts

When your offer is accepted on a house, the process shifts from searching to executing. There are timelines, documents, and moving parts — but with the right guidance, it’s completely manageable.

If you’re thinking about buying and want to understand the process before you’re in it, I’m always happy to walk you through it step by step.