If you’ve accepted an offer on your home — or you’re a buyer who just had your offer accepted — in Royal Oak, Birmingham, Hazel Park, Berkley, or along the Woodward Corridor, it can feel like the hard part is over.
In reality, this is where the process shifts.
There are still several steps between accepting an offer and getting to the closing table — and understanding what comes next can help you stay grounded and make informed decisions along the way.
Lisa A. Mills with Signature by Lisa works with both buyers and sellers throughout these communities and guides clients through this phase with a clear plan and steady communication.
What “Under Contract” Actually Means
Once you accept an offer, your home is considered under contract.
This means:
• the buyer has committed to moving forward
• timelines are now in place
• both sides begin working through the next steps of the transaction
It’s not final yet — there are still contingencies that need to be satisfied before closing.
The Inspection Period Is One of the Most Important Steps
Home inspections are a top priority and strongly recommended for every buyer.
In recent years, some buyers have chosen to waive inspections to try to win in competitive situations. That approach comes with risk. No home is worth uncovering issues after closing that could cost thousands to repair.
Relying solely on seller disclosure statements is not enough. Inspections provide an independent evaluation of the home’s condition.
Inspections are paid for by the buyer and are completed within a defined timeline in the purchase agreement. In Michigan, the standard inspection contingency is typically 5–7 days for the buyer to complete all inspections they choose.
After inspections are completed, the buyer generally has 2 days to respond in writing with one of the following:
• move forward as-is
• request repairs
• request seller concessions in lieu of repairs
• or terminate the agreement
If requests are made, the seller typically has 2 days to respond in writing.
Understanding these timelines is critical, as they guide how decisions are made during this phase.
A Real Example: Inspection and Next Steps
In a recent transaction in Royal Oak, I represented the seller.
During the inspection, the buyer’s inspector conducted a sewer scope and reported a potential crack in the sewer line. The buyer requested that the seller repair the issue.
The sewer scope, however, was not performed by a licensed plumber.
I advised my seller to bring in a licensed plumber for a second opinion. The plumber, with over 25 years of experience, evaluated the line and found no crack or issue requiring repair.
That documentation was provided to the buyer.
The buyer accepted the findings, and the transaction moved forward.
This is a good example of how not every inspection finding is final — and why having the right professionals involved matters.
What Happens After the Inspection
Once inspections are completed, the buyer may:
• move forward as-is
• request repairs
• request concessions
• or ask for additional evaluations
This is a normal part of the process.
The key is understanding what is reasonable, what is negotiable, and how to move forward without overreacting.
The Appraisal Comes Next
If the buyer is financing the home, the lender will order an appraisal.
This determines whether the home supports the agreed-upon purchase price.
If the appraisal comes in at value, the process continues.
If it comes in lower, there may be additional conversations around price or structure.
Staying Grounded During This Phase
This part of the process can feel more uncertain than the offer stage.
You’ve accepted an offer, but the deal is still moving through several steps.
The most important thing for buyers and sellers is to stay focused on:
• the overall goal
• the facts of the situation
• and the guidance being provided
Not every request needs to be a problem — many are simply part of the process.
What Buyers and Sellers Should Expect
Between contract and closing, you can expect:
• ongoing communication
• coordination of inspections and appraisal
• potential negotiations
• preparation for closing
Understanding these steps ahead of time can make the process feel much more manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions After Accepting an Offer
Is the sale final once an offer is accepted?
No. The home is under contract, but inspections, appraisal, and other contingencies must be completed before closing.
Can a deal fall apart after going under contract?
Yes, but many issues can be worked through with clear communication and a structured approach.
What happens if issues come up during inspection?
The buyer may request repairs, concessions, or additional evaluations. This is a normal part of the process and does not automatically mean the deal will fall through.
How long does it take to close after accepting an offer?
Most transactions take several weeks, depending on financing, inspections, and scheduling.
Related Articles
How Home Pricing Is Actually Determined in Royal Oak and Birmingham
How Quickly Will My Home Sell in Royal Oak and Birmingham
Why Hiring the Right Listing Agent Matters in Royal Oak and Birmingham
Conclusion
Accepting an offer is an important milestone, but it’s not the final step.
Across Royal Oak, Birmingham, Hazel Park, Berkley, and the Woodward Corridor, the period between contract and closing is where details, communication, and strategy continue to matter.
Understanding what to expect can help you move through this phase with more clarity and confidence.
Every move starts with clarity. When you're ready to understand what your next step looks like — and how to move through it with a clear plan — Lisa A. Mills with Signature by Lisa is here to guide you.
About the Author
Lisa A. Mills
Signature by Lisa | National Realty Centers
Powered by JMG Real Estate
Serving buyers and sellers throughout:
Royal Oak
Birmingham
Hazel Park
Berkley
Clawson and communities along the Woodward Corridor
