By Vero Premier Properties
Getting an offer on your home is exciting—but what happens after accepting an offer is where the real process begins. At Vero Premier Properties, we guide sellers through every step that follows so you can move forward with confidence. From inspections to appraisals and paperwork to packing, there’s a clear path between “offer accepted” and “deal closed.”
If you’re preparing to sell in Vero Beach, here’s a simple, seller-friendly breakdown of what happens after accepting an offer—and how we keep the process smooth from start to finish.
Key Takeaways
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Accepting an offer starts the official escrow and title process.
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Inspections, appraisals, and deadlines move quickly once you’re under contract.
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Title, HOA, and Florida-specific requirements must be handled correctly.
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We coordinate communication so you don’t have to chase details.
The Contract Is Signed—Now Escrow and Title Are Opened
Once both parties sign the purchase agreement, you’re officially under contract. In Florida, escrow and title are typically opened right away, and the buyer’s earnest money deposit is collected and held by the escrow holder.
Here’s what happens immediately after acceptance:
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The buyer’s deposit is delivered and held in escrow, showing commitment.
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Your contract deadlines begin, including inspection, appraisal, and financing timeframes.
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Title work starts right away, including lien and ownership checks.
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We coordinate with the title company so nothing gets delayed.
Home Inspection and Repair Negotiations
Most Vero Beach purchase contracts include an inspection period. This gives the buyer a chance to evaluate the home’s condition and request repairs or credits.
What sellers should expect during inspections:
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A licensed inspector schedules a visit, often within the first 7–10 days.
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The buyer may ask for repairs or a credit, especially for major items.
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You can negotiate, decline, or offer alternatives, depending on contract terms.
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We help you avoid over-agreeing, so you don’t give away value unnecessarily.
Appraisal Ordered by the Buyer’s Lender
If the buyer is using financing, their lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value supports the purchase price. This step matters in Vero Beach, especially for luxury homes where pricing can vary based on waterfront access, renovations, and community amenities.
What to know about the appraisal process:
- The appraiser visits the home and reviews local comparable sales.
- If the home appraises at value, the deal continues normally.
- If the appraisal comes in low, we negotiate solutions like:
- price adjustments
- buyer covering the gap
- renegotiated terms
Loan Underwriting, Title Review, and Florida-Specific Requirements
This is the stage where most of the behind-the-scenes work happens. Even when the home looks perfect, there are still legal and documentation steps that must be completed correctly in Florida.
Key items we help manage during this stage:
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The buyer’s loan underwriting and financing approval timeline
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Title search and lien resolution, if anything comes up
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HOA or condo document delivery, when applicable
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Florida-specific items, like FIRPTA requirements if the seller is not a U.S. person
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Seller disclosures and required paperwork, completed accurately and on time
Final Walkthrough and Closing Day
As closing approaches, the buyer typically completes a final walkthrough. This is their chance to confirm the home is in the agreed condition and that any negotiated repairs were completed.
What happens right before and at closing:
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Final walkthrough is scheduled, usually within 24–72 hours of closing.
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You sign the deed and seller closing documents, often ahead of time.
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The buyer signs loan paperwork and funds the transaction.
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The sale is recorded, and your proceeds are released.
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Keys, remotes, gate access, and codes are transferred as part of the handoff.
In Vero Beach, closings are typically handled by a title company, and remote closing may be possible depending on the lender, title company, and signing requirements.
FAQs
How long does it take to close after accepting an offer?
In Vero Beach, many closings take around 30–45 days when the buyer is financing. Cash deals can close faster, but the timeline still depends on title work and inspections.
Can I stay in my home after closing?
Sometimes. A post-closing occupancy agreement can be negotiated, but it must be in writing and carefully structured to protect you and the buyer.
What if the buyer backs out after we’re under contract?
If they cancel during an allowed contingency period, they may be entitled to a refund of their deposit. If they breach the contract outside those terms, you may be able to keep the deposit—depending on the contract language.
Contact Vero Premier Properties Today
At Vero Premier Properties, we don’t disappear once your home goes under contract. We manage the timeline, communicate with the buyer’s side, and stay on top of every inspection, appraisal, title update, and deadline so you don’t have to.
If you’re selling in Vero Beach and want a team that can guide you through what happens after accepting an offer with clarity and confidence, reach out to us at
Vero Premier Properties. We’ll protect your interests, keep the deal moving, and help you close smoothly—without surprises.
