What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted in Texas?

Written By: Erin Wall, San Antonio REALTOR® with LPT Realty

License Number: Texas - 833167

May 11th 2026

What Buyers Should Expect Between Contract and Closing Day

For many buyers, getting an offer accepted feels like crossing the finish line.

In reality, it is more like reaching the halfway point.

Once a contract is signed, several important steps still need to happen before closing day. This part of the process can feel overwhelming for first time buyers because there are deadlines, documents, inspections, lender requirements, and a lot of moving parts happening at once.

The good news is that most transactions follow a fairly predictable process, and understanding the timeline ahead of time can make everything feel much more manageable.

The Contract Period Officially Begins

Once both parties sign the contract, the home officially moves into what is commonly called the “under contract” phase.

At this point, several important deadlines begin immediately, including:

• Earnest money delivery
• Option fee delivery
• Inspection scheduling
• Loan processing
• Appraisal ordering

This is why staying organized and responsive during this stage is extremely important.

Earnest Money and Option Money Are Delivered

In Texas, buyers typically submit two separate payments shortly after the contract is executed:

Earnest Money

Earnest money is a deposit showing the seller that the buyer is serious about moving forward with the purchase.

The funds are usually held by the title company and later applied toward closing costs or the down payment.

Option Fee

The option fee gives the buyer the right to terminate the contract during the option period for any reason.

This creates an opportunity for buyers to fully evaluate the property before becoming fully committed.

The Option Period Begins

The option period is one of the most important stages of the transaction for buyers.

During this time, buyers typically:

• Schedule inspections
• Review the property condition
• Obtain repair estimates
• Negotiate repairs if necessary
• Evaluate whether they want to continue with the purchase

This is essentially the buyer’s opportunity to fully investigate the home before moving forward.

The length of the option period varies depending on the contract terms negotiated upfront.

The Home Inspection Takes Place

One of the first major steps after going under contract is the inspection.

The inspector evaluates many major components of the home, including:

• Roof
• HVAC system
• Plumbing
• Electrical systems
• Foundation
• Windows and doors
• Appliances
• Drainage

It is important for buyers to understand that even very clean or newer homes may still have inspection findings.

Most inspection reports look intimidating simply because inspectors are trained to document everything they see.

The goal is usually identifying major concerns versus smaller maintenance items.

Repair Negotiations May Happen

After the inspection, buyers may choose to request repairs or negotiate credits depending on the findings.

Every situation is different.

Some transactions involve minimal repairs, while others may require additional negotiations if larger issues are discovered.

At this stage, buyers generally have several options:

• Move forward as is
• Request repairs
• Request credits
• Renegotiate
• Terminate during the option period

This is one reason why inspections are such an important protection for buyers.

The Lender Continues Processing the Loan

While inspections are happening, the lender is also working through the financing process.

This may include:

• Verifying employment
• Reviewing bank statements
• Updating documents
• Reviewing credit
• Final underwriting approval

Many buyers are surprised by how document-heavy this stage can feel.

It is completely normal for lenders to request updated information multiple times throughout the process.

The Appraisal Is Ordered

If financing is involved, the lender will usually order an appraisal on the property.

The appraiser’s job is to determine whether the home’s value supports the purchase price.

In most cases, the appraisal moves forward without major issues. However, if the appraised value comes in lower than expected, additional negotiations may happen between the buyer and seller.

Title Work and Insurance Are Finalized

During the contract period, the title company also works through the title process to confirm there are no major ownership issues tied to the property.

At the same time, buyers typically finalize:

• Homeowners insurance
• Utility planning
• Closing funds
• Final lender conditions

This stage often feels quieter from the buyer’s perspective, but a large amount of behind the scenes work is happening.

The Final Walkthrough Happens Before Closing

Shortly before closing day, buyers usually complete a final walkthrough of the property.

This is an opportunity to confirm:

• The home is in expected condition
• Negotiated repairs were completed
• No major issues appeared before closing
• The property is ready for transfer

The walkthrough is not another inspection. It is simply a final confirmation before ownership changes hands.

Closing Day Arrives

Closing day is when all final documents are signed and ownership officially transfers to the buyer.

Buyers will typically:

• Sign loan documents
• Submit remaining closing funds
• Verify identification
• Review final paperwork

Once funding is complete and the transaction records, the home officially becomes yours.

What Buyers Should Take Away

The time between contract and closing can feel busy, especially for first time buyers, but most transactions follow a relatively structured process.

Understanding the major steps ahead of time helps buyers feel more confident and less overwhelmed during the transaction.

The key is staying organized, responsive, and working with professionals who can help guide you through each stage.

How I Can Help

One of the biggest advantages of working with an experienced REALTOR® is having someone help manage the process after the offer is accepted, not just during the home search itself.

From coordinating inspections and negotiations to helping buyers understand deadlines and next steps, I help clients navigate the contract-to-close process with confidence.

If you are planning to buy a home in San Antonio or the surrounding areas, I would be happy to help guide you through every step of the transaction.

Contact a Real Estate Professional Today:

Erin Wall

REALTOR® | LPT Realty

210-595-WALL (9255)

ERIN@ERINTHEREALTOR.COM