Offer Accepted: What Happens Next in Escrow

So, your offer has been accepted — congratulations! This is one of the most exciting milestones in your home-buying journey. Here’s what happens next, what to look for in your escrow opening email, how to handle your earnest money deposit (EMD), and what to expect during the first few days after acceptance.

What “Offer Accepted” Really Means

Once the seller agrees to your offer in writing, the property officially goes into escrow. Escrow is a neutral third party that manages the funds, documents, and timeline for both buyer and seller. It ensures that everyone does what they’ve agreed to before ownership officially changes hands.

At this point, you’re on your way — but there are a few important first steps to keep everything on track.

The Escrow Opening Email

After acceptance, the listing agent will open escrow and you’ll receive an email confirming that the file is active. This message is important, so be sure to read and save it. It will include:

• The escrow company name and address

• The escrow officer’s name and direct phone number

• Your file number and property address

• Wiring instructions for your earnest money deposit

• A brief timeline showing upcoming deadlines

Your escrow officer becomes one of your key contacts during this stage, so it’s a good idea to add their phone number to your contacts right away.

Your Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)

The earnest money deposit shows that you’re committed to the purchase. It’s usually about 1% of the purchase price, unless a different amount was negotiated.

You’ll have three business days from acceptance to send that deposit to escrow. Most buyers send it via wire transfer. Once it’s sent, be sure to share your proof of wire with your agent and lender so everyone can confirm receipt.

Example:
If your purchase price is $750,000, your EMD would typically be around $7,500 and due within three business days of acceptance.

How to Wire Your EMD Safely

Wire fraud is a growing concern in real estate transactions, but a few simple steps can keep your money safe:

1. Always call to confirm wiring instructions directly with your escrow officer using the number from your opening email — never from a new message.

2. Ignore last-minute changes that come by email or text. Fraudsters often impersonate escrow officers.

3. Double-check the account name and number with your bank before sending.

4. Save your wire receipt and confirm with your agent that escrow has received the funds.

Taking a few minutes to verify can protect you from costly mistakes.

Your Escrow Timeline: The First Few Days

Your timeline begins the day your offer is accepted. Here’s a typical outline:

• Day 0: Offer accepted and escrow is opened.

• Day 1: You receive the escrow opening email with instructions.

• By Day 3: Your earnest money deposit is due.

• Next: Your agent will provide a calendar of upcoming milestones, such as contingency dates and inspections.

We’ll cover contingencies and the steps that follow escrow in separate blogs, so stay tuned for those.

What to Have Ready

Getting a few things organized now helps the rest of the process move smoothly:

• A valid photo ID for all buyers

• Funds for your down payment and closing costs in accessible accounts

• Contact info for your lender and insurance agent

• The best email and phone number for all signers

Celebrate This Milestone

Opening escrow is an exciting moment — it’s the first official step toward becoming a homeowner. Take a moment to celebrate this achievement! Then stay alert for emails from your escrow officer, agent, and lender so nothing slips through the cracks. Fast communication keeps your closing on schedule.

FAQs

Who opens escrow?
The listing agent typically opens escrow once both parties sign the contract.

How much is the earnest money deposit?
It’s commonly around 1% of the purchase price unless your offer states otherwise.

When is the EMD due?
Usually within three business days after acceptance.

Do weekends or holidays count?
That depends on your contract. Your agent can confirm how your timeline is calculated.

What if I get new wiring instructions by email?
Stop and call your escrow officer at the number you already have — do not send funds until verified by phone.

Have questions about your escrow process or earnest money deposit?

The Avila Real Estate Group is here to help. We’ll confirm your deadlines, coordinate with escrow and your lender, and make sure you stay on schedule — from accepted offer to closing day.