What Happens After You Accept an Offer on Your NJ Home?

You Accepted an Offer. Now What?

Getting an offer accepted is exciting, but it’s not the finish line. In New Jersey, there are several important steps that follow before you officially close the sale. If this is your first time selling a home, or it’s been a while, here’s a clear breakdown of what happens next.

Zillow doesn’t walk you through inspections, appraisals, and paperwork, but a good agent will. Here's what to expect from accepted offer to closing day.

1. Attorney Review Period

Once the offer is signed, New Jersey law includes a three-business-day attorney review period. During this time, both buyer and seller attorneys can propose changes or even cancel the deal with no penalty.

This step protects both parties and is standard in NJ real estate transactions. Your agent and attorney will guide you through any proposed edits or revisions to the contract.

2. Home Inspection and Negotiations

After attorney review is completed, the buyer will schedule a home inspection. They may inspect for general condition, pests, radon, and more. Based on the results, the buyer might ask for repairs or credits before moving forward.

You can accept, reject, or negotiate these requests. Your agent and attorney will help you navigate these discussions so you don’t leave money on the table.

3. Appraisal Ordered by Buyer’s Lender

If the buyer is financing the purchase, their lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. If it comes in low, there may be additional negotiations or adjustments to the purchase price.

This is another reason why pricing your home accurately from the beginning is so important. It reduces the risk of issues during appraisal.

4. Buyer’s Mortgage Commitment

Once the inspection and appraisal are cleared, the buyer’s lender will issue a mortgage commitment. This is the final approval that confirms their financing is in place.

From here, the transaction moves toward closing, and both parties prepare final documents.

5. Title Work and Final Walkthrough

While attorneys coordinate title work and legal filings, the buyer will do a final walkthrough. This usually happens the day before or day of closing. It confirms the property is in the agreed condition and any repairs have been completed.

6. Closing Day

You’ll sign the final documents, hand over keys, and officially complete the sale. The title company or attorney will record the deed and distribute the proceeds to you.

Congratulations, your home is sold.

Don’t Go Through This Process Alone

Zillow may show your home as “pending,” but it doesn’t help you manage the steps that follow. A local agent coordinates the entire process to avoid delays, resolve issues, and protect your bottom line.

If you’re preparing to sell your home in New Jersey, I’ll walk you through every step, from listing to closing, so nothing is missed and you sell with confidence.