What happens after my Port Washington home goes under contract?

If you’re preparing to Sell Home in Port Washington, getting an accepted offer is a major milestone — but it’s not the finish line. Once your home goes under contract, there’s a clear sequence of steps that must happen before closing. Understanding what comes next helps you stay calm, prepared, and in control. With guidance from Eric Berman REALTOR, the post-contract phase becomes structured and predictable rather than stressful.

Why This Matters in Port Washington

Port Washington transactions follow New York–specific processes, including attorney involvement, inspections, and financing timelines. On top of that, local factors influence what happens after contract:

• Older housing stock in Baxter Estates, Salem, and Port Washington North

• Waterfront and near-water considerations in Shore Acres, Harbor Acres, Beacon Hill, and along Shore Road

• Village requirements in places like Baxter Estates and Port Washington North

• Buyer profiles ranging from NYC commuters to local move-up buyers

Knowing what to expect helps you avoid delays and keeps the deal moving toward closing.

What Smart Sellers Do First

Once your home is under contract, experienced sellers:

1. Formally retain a real estate attorney (if not already done).
   In New York, attorneys manage the contract and closing process.

2. Remove the home from active marketing (as advised).
   Eric will guide you on listing status changes and backup strategies.

3. Prepare for inspections.
   Most contracts include an inspection period shortly after acceptance.

4. Stay responsive.
   Quick communication helps prevent small issues from becoming delays.

5. Keep the home in showing condition.
   Buyers may return for follow-up visits or contractor estimates.

The Step-by-Step Process After Contract

1. Attorney Review & Fully Executed Contract

After the offer is accepted:

• Attorneys finalize and fully execute the contract

• Buyer submits their deposit (typically held in escrow)

• The inspection clock officially starts

Your attorney will explain all legal timelines and obligations.

2. Home Inspection

The buyer schedules a professional inspection, usually within:

• 7–10 days of contract execution

Inspectors commonly evaluate:

• roof, foundation, and structure

• plumbing and electrical systems

• HVAC and appliances

• attic, basement, and drainage

In Port Washington, inspectors often focus on:

• moisture in basements

• aging mechanical systems

• coastal exposure issues in near-water homes

Eric helps you prepare and manage expectations. Inspection findings typically lead to:

• repair requests

• credit requests

• or no changes at all

3. Inspection Negotiations

After inspection:

• The buyer submits a repair or credit request

• Eric helps you assess what’s reasonable based on local norms

• Negotiations are handled through attorneys

Not every issue needs to be fixed. Many are resolved through credits or acknowledgments.

4. Appraisal (If the Buyer Is Financing)

If the buyer has a mortgage:

• The lender orders an appraisal

• The appraiser evaluates value using recent local sales

Accurate pricing and strong comparable data help prevent issues — especially important in micro-markets like Manorhaven and Baxter Estates.

5. Buyer’s Loan Approval

The buyer works through:

• underwriting

• document submission

• final loan approval

This phase can take several weeks. Eric stays in close contact with all parties to ensure momentum continues.

6. Title Search & Municipal Requirements

The title company and attorneys:

• confirm clear ownership

• identify any liens or issues

• coordinate village or municipal requirements

Certain areas may require:

• certificates of occupancy

• smoke/CO certifications

• village resale inspections

These are handled in coordination with your attorney.

7. Final Walk-Through

Typically scheduled shortly before closing:

• Buyer confirms the home’s condition

• Ensures agreed-upon repairs were completed

• Confirms the home is broom-clean

Eric coordinates timing so there are no surprises.

8. Closing Day

At closing:

• Documents are signed

• Funds are transferred

• Ownership officially changes hands

Your attorney will guide you through the logistics and timing.

Local Insights You Can Use

Village & Certificate Timing

Homes in Baxter Estates, Port Washington North, and other incorporated villages may require additional certificates. Starting early prevents delays.

Waterfront & Near-Water Transactions

Homes near Manhasset Bay, Hempstead Harbor, or the Shore Road corridor may involve extra documentation or insurance coordination.
(For flood or insurance matters, consult licensed professionals.)

Older Homes = Predictable Inspection Themes

Many Port Washington homes share similar inspection patterns. Eric prepares sellers for these in advance so negotiations stay calm and professional.

How Eric Berman REALTOR Keeps the Deal on Track

Eric manages the post-contract phase proactively so nothing slips through the cracks.

He provides:

• Clear timelines and next-step checklists

• Inspection and negotiation guidance

• Coordination with attorneys, lenders, and title companies

• Local insight to anticipate issues before they arise

• Calm, steady communication through closing day

A smooth closing is rarely accidental — it’s managed.

Common Mistakes (and Better Alternatives)

Mistake #1: Thinking the hard part is over.
→ Better: Stay engaged through closing.

Mistake #2: Panicking over inspection reports.
→ Better: Review calmly with Eric and your attorney.

Mistake #3: Delaying required paperwork.
→ Better: Respond promptly to keep timelines intact.

Mistake #4: Ignoring municipal requirements.
→ Better: Address village needs early.

Mistake #5: Letting communication lapse.
→ Better: Eric keeps everyone aligned.

What Happens Next

Once your Port Washington home is under contract, the goal is a smooth path to closing.
The best way to ensure that is working closely with Eric Berman REALTOR, who manages each step, anticipates issues, and keeps the transaction moving forward.

A clear process leads to a successful closing.

FAQs

Q1. How long does it take to close after going under contract in Port Washington?
Most closings take 45–60 days for financed buyers. For your timeline, reach out to Eric Berman REALTOR.

Q2. What happens if issues come up during inspection?
Negotiations are common and manageable. Connect with Eric for guidance.

Q3. Do I need to make repairs after inspection?
Not always — credits are often an option. Ask Eric what’s typical locally.

Q4. Will I need to be present for inspections or closing?
Usually no. Eric will advise based on your situation. Contact Eric Berman REALTOR.

Q5. How can I avoid delays after contract?
Quick responses and early preparation help. Reach out to Eric to stay on track.

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com

www.theericbermanteam.com