What Happens After My Offer Is Accepted in California?

You got the call. Your offer was accepted. Now what?

The moment your purchase contract is accepted in California, you step into a structured, time-sensitive process that typically takes 30 to 45 days before you close escrow and receive the keys. For first time buyers especially, this period can feel fast and unfamiliar. But when you know what to expect at each stage, it is manageable, and even exciting.

I'm Katrina Carter, a real estate broker and loan officer based in San Leandro. I walk clients through this process regularly, and the ones who feel most confident are always the ones who understood what was coming before it arrived. Here is a clear breakdown of each step from accepted offer to close.

Day 1 to 3: Opening Escrow

Within the timeline outlined in your contract, escrow is opened with a neutral third party, typically an escrow company or title company. Your earnest money deposit, usually 1% to 3% of the purchase price, is wired to escrow within the timeframe specified in your agreement. This deposit signals to the seller that you are serious, and it is held by escrow until closing.

The Inspection Period (Usually Days 1 to 17)

Your inspection contingency period is one of the most important windows in the entire process. This is when you hire a licensed home inspector to evaluate the property. The inspector will check the roof, foundation, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and more. In many East Bay transactions, buyers also bring in specialists for pest inspections, sewer line scopes, or more detailed roof evaluations.

If something significant comes up, you have options. You can ask the seller for repairs, request a credit or price reduction, or in some cases, back out of the transaction and recover your deposit. Do not waive the inspection simply to win a bidding war. It rarely ends well.

Loan Contingency and Appraisal

While inspections are happening, your lender is moving through the formal underwriting process. An appraisal will be ordered, typically by your lender, to confirm that the home is worth what you agreed to pay. If the appraisal comes in lower than the purchase price, you and your agent will need to renegotiate with the seller or cover the difference out of pocket.

Your lender will also be collecting updated documents during this period. Expect requests for bank statements, pay stubs, and tax returns. Respond quickly. Delays in this phase can push your close date back or, in a worst case, jeopardize your loan approval.

Removing Contingencies

California purchase contracts typically include contingencies for financing, inspection, and appraisal. Each has a deadline built into the contract. Once you are satisfied with the inspection results and your loan is approved, you formally remove each contingency in writing. This is a significant step because once contingencies are removed, your earnest money deposit is generally at risk if you choose to cancel without cause.

Your agent should walk you through this step carefully and explain exactly what you are agreeing to when you sign.

The Final Walk-Through

Typically one to five days before closing, you do a final walk-through of the property. This is not a second inspection. It is your opportunity to confirm that the home is in the same condition it was in when you made your offer, that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed, and that no fixtures or items included in the sale have been removed.

Signing, Funding, and Recording

A few days before close, you will meet with a notary to sign your loan documents. Your down payment and closing costs are then wired to escrow. Once the lender funds the loan and the deed is recorded with the county, the home is yours. The moment recording is confirmed, you can receive the keys.

A Real Story

I recently worked with a first time buyer who was surprised by how much paperwork landed in the final week before closing. We had walked through the full timeline early in the process, but it still felt like a lot when it arrived all at once. Having a checklist and a clear communication rhythm with her lender made everything manageable. She closed on time and walked into her new home feeling genuinely ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to close after an accepted offer in California?

Typically 30 to 45 days, though all-cash purchases can close faster, sometimes in 7 to 14 days.

What is earnest money and can I get it back?

Earnest money is a deposit you make when your offer is accepted. If you cancel during your contingency period for a valid reason, it is typically refunded. Once contingencies are removed, it is generally at risk.

What happens if the appraisal comes in low?

You can renegotiate the price with the seller, cover the gap with additional funds, or cancel the transaction if your appraisal contingency is still active.

When exactly do I get the keys?

Once the deed records with the county, which typically happens on your scheduled close date, you are cleared to receive the keys. The exact timing depends on when recording is confirmed during the business day.

Katrina Carter
Broker Associate | Loan Officer
Call or text: 510.288.6002
[email protected]