You found the perfect home in Orlando - maybe in Lake Nona, Winter Garden, College Park, or near the attractions - and after getting pre-approved and submitting a competitive offer, your REALTOR® calls with the good news: Your offer has been accepted! Now what? While this is an exciting milestone, it’s just one part of the journey toward closing. From earnest money deposits to inspections to escrow, several critical steps still need to happen before you receive the keys to your new Central Florida home.
Submit Your Earnest Money Deposit
Shortly after your offer is accepted, you'll need to make an earnest money deposit - usually 1-3% of the purchase price-to show you’re serious about moving forward.
In Orlando, this money is typically wired to a local escrow/title company and later applied to your closing costs or down payment. Make sure these funds are ready in your bank account to avoid delays.
Pro tip: In competitive Orlando markets like Winter Park or Baldwin Park, a larger earnest deposit can make your offer more appealing to sellers.
Schedule the Home Inspection
You’ll want to schedule a home inspection ASAP, especially if your contract includes an inspection contingency (which is standard in Florida).
Your inspector will check:
• Roof and structure (important during hurricane season)
• HVAC (essential in Orlando's hot climate)
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Pool equipment (if applicable)
• Termite/pest presence (common in Florida homes)
In Central Florida, it's also a good idea to have a WDO (Wood-Destroying Organism) inspection and ask about past flooding, drainage issues, or signs of sinkhole activity.
Your Lender Orders the Appraisal
If you're using a mortgage, your lender will schedule an appraisal to ensure the home’s value matches the loan amount. You’ll typically pay this fee upfront (often $400–$600).
This step is important in fast-growing Orlando areas like Lake Mary or Horizon West, where home prices are rising rapidly. If the appraisal comes in low, you may need to renegotiate the price or cover the difference in cash.
Title Search and Escrow Process Begins
During escrow, several professionals work behind the scenes to finalize the transaction:
• Title company ensures there are no liens or legal issues with the property.
• Lender finalizes the loan approval.
• Real estate attorneys or title officers prepare the closing documents.
This process can take 30-45 days in the Orlando market, though it varies depending on loan type, inspections, and negotiations.
Review HOA Documents (if applicable)
If you’re buying in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA) - very common in areas like Lake Nona, Avalon Park, or Celebration - you’ll receive a packet of rules, fees, and community guidelines. Review these carefully with your agent to ensure you're comfortable with the terms.
Clear Contingencies & Prepare for Closing
Once the appraisal, inspection, and loan are approved, you’ll move toward closing:
• Final walkthrough of the home (typically 24-48 hours before closing)
• Sign closing documents
• Pay closing costs and down payment (usually via wire transfer)
After everything is signed, you’ll officially close on your Orlando home - and receive your keys!
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Calm, Ask Questions
Escrow can be a bit of a rollercoaster, but your Trusted Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Results Realty REALTOR® is with you every step of the way. Whether you're buying a new construction home in Laureate Park, a historic bungalow in Thornton Park, or a vacation rental near Disney, knowing what to expect after an accepted offer makes the process less stressful and more exciting.
