What Happens After I Accept an Offer on My Home in Nashville?

What happens after I accept an offer on my home in Nashville?

Once you accept an offer on your Nashville home, the process moves into escrow. This includes the buyer’s inspection, appraisal, financing steps, and final walkthrough—before closing day officially transfers ownership. Having a trusted local agent like Nik Shewmaker helps keep everything on track and stress-free.

Congratulations! You’re Under Contract — Now What?

Accepting an offer is a huge milestone, but it’s not the finish line just yet. There are still several key steps to navigate between acceptance and closing day. Here’s what you can expect after going under contract in Nashville:

Step 1: Earnest Money Deposit

Within a day or two of the contract being signed, the buyer will submit their earnest money—a good-faith deposit typically held by a title company or brokerage. In Nashville, earnest money is often around 1-2% of the purchase price.

Nik’s Tip:
Keep track of all deadlines related to the contract. Missing one could result in delays or even a canceled deal.

Step 2: Home Inspection Period

Most contracts allow the buyer an inspection period (typically 5-10 days in Nashville) to conduct a general home inspection, as well as specific inspections (HVAC, roof, termites, etc.).

After the inspection, the buyer might:

• Move forward with no requests

• Ask for repairs or credits

• Cancel the contract (depending on the contingency language)

Nik’s Tip:
Stay calm and flexible. Most issues can be negotiated with your agent's guidance.

Step 3: Appraisal Ordered

If the buyer is financing the purchase, their lender will require an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. The lender hires a third-party appraiser, and this step typically happens after the inspection period wraps up.

If the appraisal comes in at or above the agreed purchase price—great!
If it comes in below the purchase price, negotiations may reopen.

Nik’s Tip:
Price your home accurately from the start to help prevent appraisal gaps.

Step 4: Final Loan Approval

Once the inspection and appraisal are done, the buyer's lender will finalize the underwriting process. This ensures all their financial documents are in order and the loan is fully approved.

Nik’s Tip:
Don’t make major financial changes during this time (like changing jobs or buying a car) if you’re purchasing a new home yourself.

Step 5: Title Search & Escrow Prep

The title company conducts a search to verify clean ownership and ensure there are no outstanding liens, judgments, or title defects.

If all is clear, they prepare the documents and coordinate with the lender and agents for closing day.

Step 6: Final Walkthrough

Typically 24-48 hours before closing, the buyer gets one last chance to walk through the property. They’re confirming it’s in the same condition as when the offer was accepted and any agreed-upon repairs were completed.

Nik’s Tip:
Leave behind manuals, garage remotes, and keys in a clearly labeled spot. A smooth handoff goes a long way.

Step 7: Closing Day!

Time to sign! You’ll meet with the title company or a mobile notary to sign the final paperwork. Once funds are transferred and the deed is recorded with the county, your home is officially sold.

In Tennessee, sellers often get their proceeds the same day or within 1 business day of closing.

Wrapping It Up

Selling your home in Nashville involves a detailed process even after you accept an offer—but you don’t have to go it alone. Working with an experienced local Realtor like Nik Shewmaker, Nashville’s Nik, ensures every detail is handled professionally, legally, and on time. From contract to closing table, she’s with you every step of the way.

📲 Call or text (615) 585-0022

📧 Email: Nashvillesnik@gmail.com

🌐 Visit: www.NashvillesNik.com