The period between an accepted offer and the notarial closing is often the most stressful phase of a property purchase - particularly for first-time buyers who do not know what to expect at each step. Here is a clear, sequential breakdown of everything that happens after your Promesse d'achat is signed by both parties.
Days 1–5: Condition Period
If your offer included conditions (inspection and/or financing - which it should), the clock starts immediately. Book your home inspector within 24 hours of offer acceptance - good inspectors are busy, and your condition deadline is firm. Simultaneously, forward your accepted offer to your mortgage broker or bank contact to begin the formal approval process.
The Home Inspection
Your inspector will examine the property and deliver a written report, typically within 24 hours of the inspection appointment. Review it carefully with your buyer's broker. Minor issues are normal - every property has them. Significant structural, mechanical, or water issues warrant a conversation with your broker about how to proceed: renegotiation, repair request, or in rare cases, withdrawal.
Mortgage Approval
Your lender will issue a commitment letter once the underwriting review is complete and the property has been appraised. If the appraisal comes in below the purchase price, you may need to make up the difference in cash, renegotiate the price, or change lenders. Your mortgage broker manages this process - ask for status updates every two days if you have not heard.
Waiving Conditions
Once both inspection and financing conditions are satisfied, you (or your broker) will sign a written waiver of conditions. From this moment, the deal is firm. Both parties are legally committed to completing the transaction on the agreed terms. Ensure your broker sends a copy to the seller's broker immediately.
Choosing Your Notary
Now is the time to confirm your notary. If you do not have one, your broker can recommend several. The notary will conduct a title search (confirming ownership chain and that the property is free of hidden charges), prepare the mortgage deed and transfer deed, and coordinate the closing logistics with all parties.
Pre-Closing Walkthrough
Within 24–48 hours of closing, you have the right to conduct a pre-closing walkthrough to confirm the property is in the condition agreed upon and that all agreed inclusions are present. If anything is wrong, notify your broker immediately - this is your last opportunity to address it before keys change hands.
Notarial Closing Day
You will sign the mortgage deed and transfer deed at the notary's office. Bring government-issued identification. The balance of the purchase price (down payment less deposit, plus any adjustments) is transferred via certified funds before signing. The notary registers the transaction at the land registry, and keys are yours.