So, you’ve accepted an offer. Congrats! That’s a big step toward handing over the keys to your East Texas home. Whether you’re in Tyler, Lindale, or somewhere deep in the pines, going under contract means you’re officially in the homestretch.
But now what? Here’s what happens next, and what you can expect as you move closer to closing day.
1. The Option Period Begins
Right after you go under contract, most buyers will enter what’s called the option period—usually lasting 5 to 10 days. During this time, the buyer can have the home inspected and decide whether to move forward, negotiate repairs, or walk away (with their earnest money intact).
What you do:
Be flexible with scheduling the inspection and any follow-up visits. The smoother this part goes, the more confident the buyer feels about moving forward.
2. Home Inspection & Repair Requests
The buyer’s inspector will likely find a few things. Don’t worry, even new homes turn up a surprise or two. After the report, the buyer may request repairs or ask for concessions. In real estate, “asking for concessions” means requesting that the seller cover certain costs or provide financial incentives to make the home purchase more affordable. Common seller concessions include covering closing costs or providing home warranties
What you do:
Decide which concessions you’re willing to make. You don’t have to fix everything or give in to every demand, but being reasonable (especially about major issues) keeps things moving toward closing.
3. Appraisal Time
If the buyer is obtaining a mortgage, the lender will order an appraisal to make sure the home’s value lines up with the loan amount.
​A home appraisal is a professional, unbiased assessment of a property’s fair market value, typically conducted by a licensed appraiser. The appraisal includes both a thorough property inspection and a comparative market analysis.
What you do:
Make sure the home is tidy and accessible on the day of the appraisal. If the appraisal comes in low, be ready to discuss solutions with your Tyler, TX, realtor, like renegotiating or reviewing comps.
4. Title Search & Paperwork
Meanwhile, the title company will be doing a deep dive into the property’s history, checking for liens, unpaid taxes, or boundary disputes. To make this part of the process easier for everyone, be upfront and honest about any possible glitches: outstanding liens, unpaid HOA dues, probate matters, etc.
What you do:
Respond quickly to any requests from your title company or real estate agent. The faster they get what they need, the smoother your closing process will be.
5. Final Walkthrough
A day or two before closing, the buyer will do a final walkthrough to make sure the property is in the same condition as when they agreed to buy it—and that any agreed-upon repairs were completed to their satisfaction.
What you do:
Leave the home clean and clear of personal items (unless otherwise agreed), and be sure all contracted repairs are wrapped up.
6. Closing Day
This is it! You’ll sign a few documents, hand over the keys, and celebrate the end of a successful home sale.
What you do:
Bring your ID, review the settlement statement carefully, and ask questions if anything looks fishy. Then sign, smile, and exhale—you did it.
Final Tip for East Texas Sellers
Selling a home in East Texas isn’t just a transaction—it’s parting with a place in which you’ve made many memories.
Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, staying informed through each step helps you move forward with peace of mind.
Need help navigating your next move? A Tyler, TX, real estate agent who knows the market—and the people—can make all the difference. Contact The Edwards Team when you’re ready to put your home up for sale in East Texas.
