What NOT To Do After Your Offer Is Accepted

Congratulations, your offer just got accepted! After more than 30 years helping buyers and sellers across Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, and the rest of the East Valley, I can tell you that getting to this point feels like crossing the finish line. But here's the truth: it's not the finish line. It's the start of a new stretch of the race, and I've seen deals fall apart in this exact window because someone got a little too excited a little too early.

So before you pop the champagne or start packing boxes, let's talk about what NOT to do between "offer accepted" and "keys in hand."

Don't Make Any Large Purchases

I get it, you're buying a house, so naturally you're thinking about furniture, appliances, maybe a new truck to haul it all. Please wait. Lenders re-check your credit and your debt-to-income ratio right before closing, and a new car loan or a maxed-out credit card for a living room set can change your numbers enough to delay or even derail your financing. Save the shopping spree for after you close.

Don't Quit Your Job or Change Jobs

Lenders like stability. Switching jobs, going from salaried to commission, or leaving the workforce during escrow can throw a wrench into your loan approval, even if the new job pays more. If a change is unavoidable, talk to your lender first, not after the fact.

Don't Open New Credit Accounts or Co-Sign for Anyone

That furniture store 12-months-no-interest offer? Skip it for now. Even a small inquiry or a new account can shift your credit score enough to matter. The same goes for co-signing a loan for a family member. It adds debt to your file whether or not you're the one making payments.

Don't Move Money Around Without Telling Your Lender

Big deposits, transfers between accounts, or "gifts" from family need to be documented for your lender. If money shows up in your account without a paper trail, it can hold up your closing while everyone scrambles for explanations.

Don't Schedule the Moving Truck for Closing Day

This one trips up a lot of buyers. Closings can shift by a day or two for all sorts of reasons: title issues, lender delays, a hiccup in the final walkthrough. I always tell my clients to build in a buffer and plan your movers for a day or two after your anticipated closing, not the exact date. It's a lot less stressful than trying to reschedule a moving crew last minute.

Don't Skip the Final Walkthrough

Even if everything seemed perfect during your inspection, do your final walkthrough before closing. You want to confirm the home is in the same condition as when you agreed to buy it, and that anything the seller agreed to fix has actually been addressed.

Don't Cancel Your Renter's or Homeowners Insurance Too Early (or Too Late)

Don't let your current coverage lapse before your new policy is active, and don't forget to have homeowners insurance in place before closing. Your lender will require proof of it, and you don't want a gap in coverage during a Valley monsoon season.

Don't Pop the Champagne Just Yet

I know, it's tempting. But hold off on the big celebration until you've actually signed at the title company and funding has recorded. Things can and do change during escrow, so enjoy the moment, but save the toast for after you have the keys in hand.

What You SHOULD Do During This Time

Now for the good news, here's how to actually spend this waiting period productively:

Stay in close contact with your lender and respond quickly to any document requests. Delays are often caused by paperwork sitting in someone's inbox.

Schedule your inspections promptly and review them carefully. Here in Arizona, you'll want a close eye on things like HVAC condition, roof and stucco integrity, and any signs of termite activity given our climate.

Get homeowners insurance quotes early so you're not scrambling at the last minute.

Set up utilities for your new home ahead of your move-in date. APS, SRP, and your local water provider all allow you to schedule transfers in advance.

Do your research on the neighborhood, schools, and HOA if applicable, so you're settling in with confidence.

Keep saving. Closing costs and moving expenses tend to add up, so let your reserve cushion grow rather than shrink during this window.

Ask questions. If something during escrow doesn't make sense, whether it's a line on the settlement statement or a request from your lender, ask your Realtor or your lender. That's what we're here for.

The period between offer acceptance and closing is exciting, but it's also when the details matter most. After 30-plus years guiding East Valley buyers and sellers through this exact stretch, my advice is always the same: stay patient, stay in communication, and let the process play out. Before you know it, you'll have those keys in hand and the celebration will be well deserved.

If you're getting ready to buy or sell in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale, or anywhere in the East Valley, I'm always happy to walk you through what to expect every step of the way. Feel free to reach out anytime.