Congratulations on accepting an offer on your home. While this is a major milestone, there are still several important steps between contract and closing. Understanding what happens next, what you can control, and how to avoid last minute surprises can help ensure a smooth path to closing day.

This week by week guide walks sellers through inspections, appraisal, repairs, and the final clear to close so you can move forward with confidence.

Week One to Two

Home Inspections

Shortly after your home goes under contract, the buyer will schedule a home inspection. This step is largely in the buyer’s control and allows them to assess the overall condition of the property.

As a seller, you can help the process go smoothly by making sure the inspector has access to all areas of the home including the attic, crawlspace, basement, garage, and electrical panels. Utilities should be on and pets secured during the inspection.

While you cannot control the inspection results, you can reduce the risk of issues by addressing known problems before listing your home. After the inspection, the buyer may request repairs or ask for a price adjustment based on the findings.

Week Three

Appraisal

Once inspections are completed, the buyer’s lender will order an appraisal. The appraisal confirms that the home’s value supports the agreed upon purchase price.

This step is mostly outside of a seller’s control, but presentation still matters. Make sure your home is clean, accessible, and showing well both inside and out. Your real estate agent may also provide the appraiser with recent comparable sales and a list of upgrades.

If the appraisal comes in lower than the contract price, the buyer and seller may need to renegotiate. Options can include adjusting the price, the buyer bringing additional funds to closing, or meeting somewhere in the middle.

Week Four to Five

Repairs and Second Inspections

If repairs were negotiated after the inspection, this is the time to complete them. This is one of the stages where sellers have the most control.

Hire licensed and reputable contractors and complete the work promptly. Keep all invoices and documentation. In many cases, the buyer will request a follow up inspection to confirm repairs were completed properly.

Staying organized and responsive during this phase can prevent unnecessary delays and keep the closing timeline intact.

Week Six

Clear to Close

The final step before closing is receiving the clear to close from the buyer’s lender. This means all loan conditions have been satisfied and the buyer’s financing is fully approved.

While this stage is largely out of the seller’s hands, it is important to remain responsive. Keep the home in good condition and avoid making changes that could affect the final walkthrough. Stay in close contact with your real estate agent in case the lender or buyer requests additional information.

How Sellers Can Avoid Last Minute Surprises

Preparing ahead of time can make a significant difference in how smoothly your transaction closes.

Be proactive by addressing known issues before listing your home
Stay informed by maintaining regular communication with your real estate agent
Be prepared with a plan if the appraisal comes in low or if financing issues arise

While not every step of the process is within your control, preparation and clear communication go a long way. Understanding this post offer timeline helps sellers feel confident and informed all the way to closing day.