Congrats! You accepted an offer. Now what? The period between offer acceptance and closing is when a lot actually happens behind the scenes: inspections, lender checks, paperwork, title work, and a few little deadlines that can feel urgent. Below, we'll walk you through the usual steps, give practical tips, and answer the FAQs sellers ask most.

Quick overview (what to expect, fast)

• Typical timeline: about 30–45 days from contract to closing for most financed deals (cash deals can be faster). 

• Key players doing the work: buyer’s lender and underwriter, inspector, appraiser, title/closing attorney, buyer’s agent, and your listing agent.

Step-by-step: what usually happens when an offer is accepted

1. Signing the Purchase Agreement

Once you and the buyer agree on the offer terms, both sides sign the purchase agreement. This legally binding contract outlines price, contingencies, deadlines, and responsibilities for each party. Your agent will help you review everything before signing to ensure your interests are protected.

2. Earnest money & escrow opens

Buyer’s earnest money is deposited and escrow opens. That money shows the buyer is serious and is held by a neutral party while the deal proceeds. Expect your agent to confirm deposit and escrow holder.

3. Inspection period

Buyers schedule a home inspection (and sometimes a few specialty inspections). The inspector reports problems; buyers commonly ask for repairs or credits. You can agree, negotiate, or refuse; negotiation usually follows. 

4. Appraisal (if buyer uses a mortgage)

The lender orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. If the appraisal comes in low, buyer and seller may renegotiate price, buyer may pay the difference, or the deal can fall apart if no resolution is found. 

5. Buyer’s loan underwriting

The lender verifies income, title, property, and the buyer’s finances. This is typically the longest single part of the process; expect requests for documents and quick responses from the buyer’s side. 

6. Title search & attorney handling

South Carolina uses attorney-handled closings. A title search is done to confirm there are no liens or title problems. If issues show up, they must be fixed before closing. The closing attorney prepares closing documents and handles recording. 

7. Disclosures, HOA docs, and final paperwork

You must provide any required seller disclosures under SC law. If the property is in an HOA, the buyer will request HOA docs (sometimes for a fee). Paperwork gets exchanged and reviewed well before the closing date. 

8. Closing disclosure and the 3-day rule

Buyers typically receive a Closing Disclosure (a final loan cost summary) at least 3 business days before closing. That gives them time to review final loan terms. If numbers change significantly, the clock can reset. 

9. Final walkthrough and closing day

Buyers do a last walkthrough to confirm the home’s condition. On closing day you’ll sign paperwork, the buyer’s funds or loan funds get distributed, title is recorded, and the home ownership transfers.

What sellers usually pay

Sellers commonly pay agent commission and several closing costs. In South Carolina, average seller closing costs are often estimated around 3% of the sale price (not including agent commission), but different sources give ranges, always good to get a local estimate for your exact situation.

Note: agent commission practices have been shifting in recent years; while sellers often still end up covering buyer agent fees at closing, the landscape has more transparency now. Ask your agent how commissions will be handled in your contract.

Practical tips for sellers 

• Keep the house show-ready during escrow in case the buyer wants another walkthrough or a last-minute buyer appears.

• Say yes to reasonable inspection access; delays make buyers nervous and slow the process.

• Gather documents early: HOA contacts, warranties, past repair receipts, permit records, and the seller disclosure form.

• Ask your agent for a closing-cost estimate early so you won’t be surprised at settlement.

• Stay in close contact with your listing agent and respond quickly to requests; speed prevents glitches.

• If you’re buying another home, coordinate closing dates and ask your agent for options (rent-back, bridge loan, etc.).

Common seller FAQs

Q: How long will it take to close?
Most financed deals close in about 30–45 days, but it can be shorter for cash or longer if there are lender or title issues. 

Q: Can the buyer back out after acceptance?
Yes, if their contract includes contingencies (inspection, financing, appraisal) they can withdraw during those contingency windows unless you negotiate those terms. 

Q: Who handles the closing in South Carolina?
An attorney typically handles closings in SC they do the title work and prepare closing documents. Make sure your agent coordinates with the closing attorney. 

Q: What if the appraisal is low?
Options include renegotiating price, buyer paying more cash, the buyer finding another lender, or in worst cases, deal termination. Your agent can help craft responses that protect your sale. 

Q: How much will I pay in closing costs?
Expect some closing costs (often estimated at 3% of sale price excluding commission), but your exact numbers depend on the agreement and local fees. Ask for an itemized estimate early.

The period between acceptance and closing is busy but manageable. Most issues are routine: inspections, appraisal, and paperwork. With quick responses, good documentation, and a proactive agent, you’ll keep the sale moving and avoid last-minute surprises.