What happens after a home offer is accepted? The parties work through the obligations in their purchase agreement, with escrow, lending and other professionals handling their respective roles. The exact duties and deadlines come from the agreement.
This is an educational overview for California buyers, not legal, lending, insurance or property-condition advice. Your actual contract and qualified professionals govern the transaction.
The contract becomes the calendar
Once the offer is accepted, the dates and obligations in the purchase agreement drive the process. Your exact timeline may include a deposit, inspections, disclosure review, appraisal, loan approval, contingency decisions, signing and a final walkthrough.
Deposit money safely
Escrow will provide instructions for the earnest-money deposit. Wire fraud is a real risk, so independently verify instructions using a trusted phone number before sending funds. Never rely solely on a last-minute email that changes wiring details.
Keep your financial picture stable
Before opening or closing credit, moving large sums, changing jobs, buying a vehicle or making another major financial decision, speak with your lender. Even an action that seems financially responsible can affect documentation or qualification during underwriting.
Start insurance early
Confirm insurability and obtain coverage early enough to satisfy your lender and your own risk review. Availability and cost can vary significantly by property, location, building type and current carrier requirements.
Understand due diligence and contract protections
Review disclosures, inspections, title information and any HOA documents; investigate material questions; and understand the deadlines attached to your protections. Contingency decisions should follow the contract and the advice of the appropriate real estate, lending, inspection, insurance, legal and tax professionals.
Move from approval to closing
The lender completes underwriting and, when applicable, an appraisal. You review final figures, sign closing documents and complete a final walkthrough to confirm the property is in the agreed condition. Escrow closes after the required funds and documents are received and the transfer records.