What Actually Happens After You Go Under Contract

Going under contract is exciting… and then for a lot of people, the next thought is:

“Okay… now what?”

There are a few steps between getting a home under contract and actually getting to the closing table—and knowing what to expect can make the whole process feel a lot less overwhelming.

Here’s what really happens next.

Due Diligence Period Starts 📝

Once you’re under contract, the due diligence period begins.

This is your time to:

• Schedule inspections
• Do your research on the property
• Make sure everything checks out

This is one of the most important parts of the process, because it’s your opportunity to fully understand what you’re buying.

Inspections Happen 🔍

Most buyers will schedule a home inspection pretty quickly.

Depending on the home, you might also have:

• Pest inspection
• Radon test
• Septic or well inspection

After inspections, you’ll decide if you want to:

• Move forward as-is
• Ask for repairs or a credit
• Or, in some cases, walk away

Repair Negotiations

If anything comes up during inspections, this is where negotiations happen.

Not everything gets fixed—and that’s normal.

The goal is to focus on:

• Major issues
• Safety concerns
• Things that could affect financing

Appraisal Ordered 💰

If you’re getting a loan, your lender will order an appraisal.

This determines if the home is worth what you agreed to pay.

• If it appraises at value → great
• If it comes in low → we may need to renegotiate

Loan Process Moves Forward

During this time, your lender is working behind the scenes to finalize your loan.

They may ask for:

• Updated documents
• Additional paperwork
• Clarifications

This is totally normal—just stay responsive so things keep moving.

Final Walkthrough

Right before closing, you’ll do a final walkthrough of the home.

This is your chance to make sure:

• The home is in the agreed condition
• Any negotiated repairs were completed
• Everything looks as expected

Closing Day 🎉

This is the day everything becomes official.

You’ll sign paperwork, funds will be transferred, and then…

You get the keys.

My Take

The time between going under contract and closing can feel like a lot—but it’s all part of making sure you’re protected and confident in your purchase.

And the good news? You don’t have to navigate any of it alone.

Thinking About Buying? 💬

If you’re getting ready to buy and want to know what to expect from start to finish, I’m happy to walk you through it.

No pressure—just real guidance so you feel prepared every step of the way.