What Happens After You Accept an Offer in Colorado? (The “Under Contract” Phase)

by Kim And Amber Wermerskirchen

What Happens After You Accept an Offer in Colorado?

The "Under Contract" Phase: Moving from a signed agreement to a successful closing.

The sold sign doesn’t go up the second you sign the contract—after acceptance is when the real work begins. In the Denver Metro market, the next 30-ish days are a coordinated sprint of deadlines: inspections, appraisal, title, HOA review, and lender underwriting.

Once you accept an offer, your home is “under contract,” and the buyer begins their due diligence period.

The Seller’s Checklist

1. Earnest Money: Delivered per the contract terms immediately.

2. Inspections: Buyers typically submit objections within 5–10 days.

3. Appraisal: Confirms value for the lender (or triggers renegotiation).

4. Title Work: Title commitment is issued to ensure a clear transfer.

5. HOA Review: If applicable, the buyer reviews all community documents.

6. Final Walkthrough: Occurs shortly before closing to verify home condition.

Can the buyer back out?

Yes—depending on the contract, buyers may be able to terminate if inspection issues aren’t resolved, if financing fails, or if other deadlines aren’t satisfied. The best protection is strong buyer vetting, clear documentation, and active timeline management.

When do you get your money?

At closing, documents are signed, funds are distributed, and the deed is recorded to transfer ownership. Sellers typically receive proceeds via wire, often the same day, depending on the title company’s processes and banking cutoffs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to keep the house show-ready?

Usually, you won’t have public showings, but you must keep it accessible and in good condition for the appraiser, inspectors, and the final walkthrough.

What is the "Partnership" phase?

Accepting an offer is the beginning of a partnership. We manage the timelines and negotiations so you can focus on packing for your next chapter.