A Step-By-Step Contract-to-Close Selling Guide

What happens after you accept an offer — every step to the closing table.

So you've accepted an offer. That's a big moment, but there's still a stretch between signing and handing over the keys, and it's a lot less stressful when you know what's coming. This guide is for sellers who are under contract, or about to be, and want a clear picture of each step so nothing catches them off guard.

It lays out ten milestones in order, from the day the contract goes binding to the closing table, along with what's expected of you at each one.

The first few days: binding, earnest money and inspection

Your contract goes binding once all parties agree to the terms and sign. Soon after, the buyer deposits their earnest money, which shows they intend to move forward. Then comes the home inspection. The buyer hires their own inspector, and you'll need to be out of the house while it happens.

If the inspection turns up things the buyer wants addressed, that's when repair conversations start. In Georgia, that usually happens during the due diligence period written into the contract. You'll typically have options, like making a repair, offering a credit toward closing costs or declining certain requests, and I'll talk through the trade-offs with you before you respond.

The middle stretch: appraisal, title and packing

If the buyer is financing, they'll order an appraisal, and the appraiser will need access to your home. When the value comes in at the agreed price, that step is done. If it comes in lower, it's a conversation, not an automatic dead end, and you'll have choices to weigh.

Meanwhile, the closing attorney runs title to make sure there are no clouds or issues on it. Georgia closings are handled by a closing attorney, so that office is where a lot of the behind-the-scenes work happens. And while the buyer is still working on their loan, it's a good time to start packing the things you can live without until move-out.

The final stretch: clear to close, utilities and walkthrough

Once you're clear to close, you'll get your final numbers to review so you can make sure they line up with what you expected. If something looks off, that's the time to ask.

Call your utility companies and let them know service is transferring to the buyer on closing day. Before the buyer's final walkthrough, the house needs to be completely moved out and clean. Then you'll attend closing, hand over the keys and celebrate.

The free guide shows all ten steps as a one-page roadmap you can keep on the fridge.

Common questions about the contract-to-close period

Do I have to leave the house during the inspection?

Yes. Plan to be out for about two to three hours while the buyer's inspector works through the home.

How long does the appraiser need to be at my home?

About 20 minutes. The buyer orders the appraisal, and your part is making sure the appraiser can get in.

What condition does the house need to be in for the final walkthrough?

Fully cleaned out and broom swept, so the buyer walks into a home that's ready to hand over.