Offer Accepted in Coconut Grove—Now What?

You’ve just accepted an offer on your Coconut Grove home. Congrats! But if you’re thinking the hard part is over… not quite yet.

You might be wondering:

“What happens after I accept an offer—what do I actually need to do?”
The answer: Stay proactive, stay informed, and stay prepared for what’s next.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what comes after the handshake, and how to keep your deal on track through closing.

1. Signed Contract → Escrow Opens

Once you and the buyer sign the purchase agreement, your home officially goes into escrow. This is the period between offer acceptance and final closing, where everything happens behind the scenes.

Key moments:

• Buyer deposits earnest money (usually within 1–3 days)
• Title company is selected (your agent or the buyer’s will coordinate)
• Timeline is locked in: inspections, contingencies, and closing dates

At Riley Smith Group, we immediately coordinate with title, lenders, and the buyer’s agent to ensure the next steps begin seamlessly.

2. Inspections Begin

Most Coconut Grove buyers will schedule a general home inspection within the first 5–10 days. They may also order:

• Roof inspections
• Termite/WDO inspections
• Sewer scope (especially in older Grove homes)
• Pool or septic inspections if applicable

Expect 1–2 appointments, often lasting a few hours. You do not need to be home—but the property should be clean and accessible.

3. Inspection Negotiations

After reviewing inspection results, the buyer may:

• Accept the home as-is
• Request repairs
• Ask for a credit or price adjustment
• Walk away (only if allowed by the inspection contingency)

This stage can get tense—but it doesn’t have to.

RSG negotiates from experience and strategy, helping you protect your price while addressing fair concerns. Our goal is to keep the deal moving forward without giving away value.

4. Appraisal + Loan Approval (If Financed)

If the buyer is using a mortgage, their lender will send an appraiser to determine the home’s value. This typically happens 2–3 weeks into the contract period.

If the home appraises at or above the purchase price: great.

If it appraises below the agreed price: expect a round of negotiation, especially in a shifting market like 2026.

Meanwhile, the buyer’s loan goes through underwriting—a process of final approval. Your home must stay in similar condition throughout this time.

5. Title Work + HOA/Condo Docs

While inspections and appraisals are happening, the title company will:

• Run a title search
• Confirm no liens, judgments, or ownership issues
• Order HOA or condo docs if applicable

Make sure you’re responsive if any documents are needed. Quick turnaround helps avoid closing delays.

6. Final Walkthrough

Usually scheduled 24–48 hours before closing, the final walkthrough allows the buyer to:

• Confirm repairs were completed
• Ensure the home is in the same condition
• Check for any damage from move-out

Tip: Leave the home clean and clear of all personal belongings unless otherwise agreed.

7. Closing Day

It’s here! On closing day, you’ll:

• Sign final documents (either in person or remotely)
• Hand over keys, garage openers, and any manuals or access devices
• Receive your net proceeds—usually via wire transfer

And just like that… you’re officially done.

Final Thought: Stay Connected from Offer to Close

An accepted offer is a big step—but it’s just the beginning of the finish line.

Having a team like Riley Smith Group guiding you through the post-offer process means fewer surprises, less stress, and a smooth path to closing day.

From negotiation to final signature, we handle every detail—so you can focus on what’s next.