Blog · November 2, 2026
Your offer was accepted. Here's what happens next in California.
By Albert Sanchez, REALTOR® · Century 21 Allstars
Getting your offer accepted is a great feeling. Then the emails start: escrow, disclosures, inspection reports, lender requests. Here's the order things usually happen in, so nothing catches you off guard.
The days below are the defaults on the standard California purchase agreement most agents use. Your contract can change any of them, so always go by what you signed.
Days 1 to 3: open escrow and send your deposit
Escrow is opened with a neutral company that holds the money and paperwork. Your earnest money deposit is usually due within 3 business days of acceptance. Call escrow to confirm wire instructions by phone before sending anything. Wire fraud in real estate is real.
Within 7 days: the seller's disclosures
The seller sends disclosures about the home: known problems, past repairs, neighborhood issues, natural hazard zones and more. Read every page. If something in there worries you, now is the time to ask about it.
Within 17 days: inspections and your investigation
This is your window to look closely at the home. Most buyers get a general home inspection, and often a sewer line camera inspection, roof inspection or termite report depending on the house. Older homes in our area often need that sewer scope.
If the inspection turns up problems, you can ask the seller to fix them, ask for a credit, or cancel during this contingency period.
Around the same time: the appraisal
If you're getting a loan, the lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home is worth the price. The default appraisal contingency is 17 days. If the appraisal comes in low, you have options: renegotiate the price, cover the gap in cash, or cancel if you still have the contingency.
Within 21 days: loan approval
The default loan contingency is 21 days. Your lender will ask for updated pay stubs and bank statements. This is the worst time to change jobs, finance a car or open a new credit card. Keep everything as steady as you can until you have keys.
Removing contingencies
When you're satisfied with the inspections, appraisal and loan, you sign a form removing those contingencies. After that, your deposit is generally at risk if you back out. We'll make sure you're comfortable before you sign it.
The last week: final walkthrough, signing and closing
- Final walkthrough. You visit the home a few days before closing to make sure it's in the condition agreed and any repairs are done.
- Sign loan documents. Usually with a notary, a few days before closing.
- Wire your closing funds (again, confirm by phone first).
- Recording. The deed is recorded with the county, and the home is yours.
Most financed purchases close in about 30 days. Cash deals can close faster.
Common questions
How long is escrow in California?
Most financed purchases close in about 30 days. Cash purchases can close in as little as one to two weeks. Your contract sets the exact date.
Can I back out after my offer is accepted?
Usually yes while you still have contingencies, like inspection, appraisal or loan, as long as you cancel within the contract's deadlines. After you remove them, your deposit is generally at risk.
How much is the earnest money deposit?
It's negotiable. Many buyers in our area put down around 1% to 3% of the price. It's credited toward your down payment at closing.
Haven't started yet? See what you can afford first, then we'll find the right home.