Congratulations! You’ve accepted an offer on your Orlando home-whether it’s in Windermere, Lake Mary, or Thornton Park. While you're in the final stretch, several important steps remain before the sale is complete.
Opening Escrow in Orlando
The first step after accepting an offer is to open escrow. Escrow is a neutral third-party service that holds legal documents and funds on behalf of both parties. Your escrow agent works with your REALTOR® to ensure all sale conditions are met according to Florida law and local customs. This period allows the buyer to complete due diligence on your property.
Home Inspection and Negotiations
The buyer will hire a licensed home inspector to evaluate the condition of your Orlando home. Based on the report, the buyer may request repairs or credits. You can agree or negotiate these requests with your REALTOR®'s guidance. Once resolved, the buyer will remove inspection contingencies, moving the sale forward.
Financing and Appraisal Contingencies
If the buyer is financing the purchase, the next steps involve loan approval and a home appraisal. Orlando’s housing market can influence appraisal values, so preparation is key. Once the appraisal is complete and financing is approved, the transaction moves toward closing.
Final Walk-Through
A few days before closing, the buyer will conduct a final walk-through to confirm the home’s condition hasn’t changed. This is a standard step in the Orlando home selling process and helps ensure a smooth closing.
Closing Escrow and Handing Over the Keys
Once all documents are signed and funds are transferred, escrow closes. You’ll hand over the keys, and the buyer becomes the new homeowner. This marks the successful completion of your Orlando home sale.
