FIRST-TIME BUYERS · GEORGIA

What Happens After Your Offer Is Accepted

Reviewed by Susan Pryor, Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #157369 — Updated August 2026

This guide covers Georgia purchase contracts. If you’re buying in another state we’re licensed in, the details differ — ask us.

Last updated: August 2026

Key Takeaways

  • Due diligence is your 3–7 day contract safety net
  • Order your home inspection immediately
  • Sending the contract to your lender triggers payment calculations within 24 hours
  • Coordinate your homeowner’s insurance options with your lender

Making an offer on a home is exciting. And if the seller accepts, it can also feel like things just got a lot more complicated very quickly.

Here’s what actually happens next, in plain English.

01

Your due diligence period begins

In Georgia, this is typically 3 to 7 days. As long as you follow the contract terms and deadlines, you can cancel for any reason and get your earnest money back. It’s your safety net. Full guide: Due Diligence in Georgia →

02

You order your home inspection

Do this immediately. The inspector goes through the home and gives you a detailed report. Most homes will have a list of things — that’s normal. Your agent helps you decide what to negotiate and what to leave alone.

03

You send your lender the contract

The moment you’re under contract, send it in. Within 24 hours, we have your rate options, your estimated payment, and your cash-to-close figures in front of you.

04

The appraisal gets ordered

Your lender orders this after you’re under contract. The appraiser establishes the value of the home for the lender.

A few things to expect during this stretch

Your lender will likely need updated pay stubs and will want to see the earnest money leaving your account. And before you shop for homeowner’s insurance on your own, loop your lender in — coordinating it together keeps it from creating issues with your file.

FAQ

Common Questions

Two things at once: order your home inspection immediately, and send your lender the contract. Your due diligence clock is running from day one.

In Georgia, yes — during your due diligence period you can cancel for any reason and get your earnest money back, as long as you follow the contract’s deadlines and terms.

Within 24 hours of your lender receiving the contract, you should see rate options, your payment, and your cash to close. That’s our standard.

Questions about your situation?

Get Clarity in 15 Minutes

No pressure. Just answers.

About Southern Mortgage Authority — Susan Pryor, Branch Manager | Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #157369, has served 6,000+ clients over 25 years. Based in Marietta, GA and licensed in 13 states. Call 678-712-2063 or send us a message.

Susan Pryor NMLS #157369 | Ark-La-Tex Financial Services, LLC NMLS #2143 d/b/a Benchmark Mortgage | Equal Housing Lender. Not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval.