If you’re selling your home in Fairfax Station, VA, there’s still an important process between contract and closing that can impact your final outcome.  Here's what happens after you accept an offer on a home. 

Accepting an offer is a big milestone, but it’s not the finish line.

What Happens Next

1. Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)
The buyer submits their deposit, showing commitment to the contract.

2. Inspection Period
Depending on the terms, the buyer may:

• Conduct a home inspection
• Inspection can be part of the contract with negotiations, or to void only
• Inspection is scheduled within the first week of the offer acceptance
• The buyer may request repairs or credits from the inspection
• Move forward without changes to the contract

3. Appraisal (if financed)
The lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value.  An appraiser will evaluate whether the home's purchase price is acceptable for the mortgage to continue. If it is, the contract continues, and the contingency is removed.  If the appraisal does not come in at the purchase price, negotiations begin, or the contract is voided. 

4. Financing 
The buyer finalizes their loan and clears any remaining contingencies.

5. Final Walkthrough
Buyers confirm the home is in agreed condition before closing.

What Sellers Don’t Expect

• Negotiations can still happen after the offer, with contingencies on the contract.
• Timelines matter.  You must adhere to the contract, and any delays can affect the closing.
• Not all offers that look strong upfront stay that way because of the contingencies. 

Final Thought

The contract is just the beginning. From acceptance to closing, a strong agent clearly guides each step, anticipates potential issues before they arise, and leads the seller through the process with confidence.

Savvy strategies. Expert guidance. Proven results.

List with Kristin.