What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted in California?

Congratulations — the seller accepted your offer. But the deal isn't done. In California, the period between an accepted offer and closing day is where most of the real work happens. Here's exactly what to expect and what your agent should be managing for you.

Day 1-3: Open escrow and deposit your earnest money

Once both parties have signed the purchase agreement, escrow opens. An escrow company (a neutral third party) holds all documents and funds until the deal closes. Within the first three business days, you'll need to wire your earnest money deposit to escrow. This is typically 1-3% of the purchase price and shows the seller you're serious. The deposit is applied to your purchase at closing — it's not an extra cost.

Day 1-7: Seller's disclosures

The seller is required to provide extensive disclosures about the property's condition, history, and any known issues. In California, this includes the Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS), Natural Hazard Disclosure, and any city-specific reports. Your agent should review every disclosure carefully and flag anything concerning before your contingency deadlines hit.

Day 7-17: Inspections

This is your window to investigate the property. A general home inspection is standard — expect it to cost $400-600 for a typical single-family home. Depending on the property, you might also want a roof inspection, sewer line scope, foundation inspection, or pest inspection. Your agent coordinates all of this, reviews the reports with you, and advises on whether to request repairs, credits, or a price reduction.

The standard inspection contingency in California is 17 days, though this is often shortened in competitive markets. If major issues are discovered, you can negotiate with the seller or cancel the deal and get your deposit back — as long as you're still within your contingency period.

Day 7-21: Loan processing and appraisal

Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home's value supports the loan amount. If the appraisal comes in at or above your purchase price, you're good. If it comes in low, you'll need to make up the difference with cash, renegotiate the price, or cancel under your appraisal contingency.

During this same period, your lender is processing your loan — verifying income, employment, assets, and running final credit checks. Stay in close communication with your loan officer and avoid making any large purchases or changing jobs during this time.

Day 21-30: Final loan approval and closing preparation

Once the appraisal clears and your loan is fully approved, you'll receive a Closing Disclosure from your lender detailing your final loan terms and closing costs. Review it carefully. Your agent and escrow officer coordinate the final steps: title insurance, signing documents, and scheduling the closing.

Closing day

You'll sign a stack of documents (or e-sign them), wire your remaining down payment and closing costs to escrow, and wait for the county to record the deed. Once it records — usually by early afternoon — the home is officially yours. Your agent or escrow officer will arrange key pickup, and you're done.

The typical timeline from accepted offer to closing in California is 30 days for a financed purchase and 14-21 days for all-cash deals. Your agent manages every deadline throughout this process to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.