Your Home Buying Journey How to Tour Homes Like a Pro

David Mercier

Your Offer Was Accepted—Now What?

Your offer was accepted—Congratulations! 🎉—but now the work begins.

The next steps—when everything behind the scenes kicks into high gear. It can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’m going to walk you through each step. Here’s a quick overview of what happens after your offer is accepted (don’t worry, we’ll cover each of these in more detail in upcoming posts!).

Your offer was accepted

**🏡This post is part of my Home Buying 101 series!**

Whether you’re just getting started or deep into the search, this step-by-step guide is here to help you feel confident every step of the way.

From getting pre-approved to moving day, I’ve broken down the entire home-buying journey.

Make sure you add your questions in a comment or find me on Instagram and send me a DM: @davidkmercier

👉 Click here to view the full Home Buying 101 series

Who is this series for?

🔹 First-time buyers who want a clear roadmap.
🔹Move-up buyers ready for or on the path to their dream home.
🔹Investors looking to get started with a smart strategy and are considering options.
🔹 Anyone who hates surprises and wants to be fully prepared for their Home Buying journey!

David Mercier introduces the ultimate home-buying guide, walking you through every step of the process, from pre-approval to move-in day!

1️⃣ Escrow is Opened

Escrow acts as the neutral third party handling the paperwork, funds, and legal details of the transaction. They make sure everyone plays fair and the sale stays on track. This is the first step after your offer is accepted.

2️⃣ You’ll Wire Your Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)

This is your way of saying, “I’m serious.” You’ll wire your earnest money—typically 1–3% of the purchase price—to the escrow company ASAP.

Usually the seller won’t allow you to schedule the inspection(s) before your EMD is received by escrow.

3️⃣ Investigations & Inspections Begin

You’ll have the opportunity to thoroughly inspect the home—I always recommend a general inspection and termite. Discuss other potential inspections with your agent!

4️⃣ The Appraisal is Ordered

If you’re using a loan, your lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home is worth what you’ve agreed to pay. This helps protect both you and the bank.

5️⃣ You’ll Receive Full Loan Approval

After reviewing the appraisal, updated income docs, and other required paperwork, your lender will issue the final stamp of approval on your mortgage.

6️⃣ You’ll Remove Contingencies

Once you’re satisfied with the inspections, the appraisal, and your loan approval, it’s time to remove your contingencies—this step makes your offer binding.

7️⃣ You’ll Sign Your Final Loan Documents

You’ll meet with a notary or escrow officer to sign your final loan and closing documents. This is when it all starts to feel very real!

8️⃣ The Final Walkthrough

Just before closing, you’ll do a final walkthrough of the home to make sure it’s in the same condition as when you made your offer—and that any agreed-upon repairs are complete.

Your Take Away

Your offer was accepted! Had a mini celebration, but remember there’s a lot of work do to. Each of these steps is crucial, and while they may sound like a lot, I’ll be by your side the whole way to make it smooth and stress-free. Stay tuned as we break down each part of the escrow process in detail—and get you one step closer to holding the keys to your new home! 🏡🔑