When your offer is accepted, it’s easy to think the hard part is over—but really, this is when the most important steps begin. The period between acceptance and closing is carefully structured to protect both buyers and sellers, ensuring everything moves forward smoothly and on time.

Here’s a clear look at what to expect next on both sides of the transaction.

🛍 For Buyers: Your Next Steps

• Open Escrow & Deposit Earnest Money
  Once your offer is accepted, escrow is officially opened and your earnest money deposit is due within 3 business days of acceptance. This deposit shows your commitment to the purchase.
• Schedule Inspections
  This is your opportunity to learn everything you can about the home. Inspections help you understand its condition and can inform any negotiations moving forward.
• Review Seller Disclosures
  Sellers will provide legally required disclosures that outline the property’s condition, history, and any known issues.
• Order Loan & Appraisal
  If financing is part of your purchase, your lender will start the loan process and order an appraisal to confirm the property’s value.
• Remove Contingencies
  After completing inspections, reviewing disclosures, and finalizing financing, contingencies are removed—this is a big milestone in the process.
• Final Walkthrough
  Just before closing, you’ll walk through the property to make sure it’s in the same condition as when you made the offer and confirm any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.
• Closing Day
  Buyer funds are typically wired to escrow a few days before the official close. Once everything is received and the deed is recorded, the property becomes yours and you get the keys! 🏡✨

🏠 For Sellers: Your Next Steps

• Acceptance
  Once an offer is accepted, timelines begin. Buyers must deposit their earnest money within 3 business days of acceptance.
• Provide Required Disclosures
  You’ll share all legally required property disclosures for the buyer’s review.
• Accommodate Inspections & Appraisal
  Buyers will likely schedule their inspections and, if applicable, their lender’s appraisal. Making the property easily accessible helps keep everything on schedule.
• Negotiate Repairs (If Needed)
  Buyers may request repairs or credits after inspections. You’ll review and decide how to respond.
• Work Toward Contingency Removal
  Once contingencies are lifted, the transaction moves into its final stretch.
• Prepare to Move
  Start packing and lining up your moving timeline to ensure a smooth transition.
• Closing & Key Handoff
  Once funds are received and the deed is officially recorded, ownership transfers to the buyer and the keys are handed over. 🎉

✨ Our Advice

The escrow process may seem like a lot of steps, but with a trusted real estate team guiding you through each one, it can be a smooth and stress-free experience.

If you’re buying or selling in North County San Diego, our team at Coastal Luxe Properties is here to help make the transition to your next chapter seamless and informed.

📲 Let’s talk about your next move today.