The Key Steps to Take Before Locking in the Contract
This guide walks you through the entire contract-signing process, step by step, in plain language, so you feel confident, not confused.
If you’ve never sold a property off-market before, signing a purchase agreement can feel… intense.
You’ve talked to a buyer, maybe agreed on a number, but now there’s paperwork. Questions. Worries. And probably more than a little hesitation.
At Goliath, we work with first-time sellers every day. We know the stress, and we know exactly how to make it simple.
This guide walks you through the entire contract-signing process, step by step, in plain language, so you feel confident, not confused.
No legal jargon. No pressure. Just clarity.
Step 1: Verbal Agreement and Offer Recap
Before anything gets signed, both sides should be on the same page.
The buyer (you, your rep, or your investor contact) confirms:
The price
The timeline to close
Any additional terms (e.g., “you can leave stuff behind,” “we’ll handle closing costs”)
If anything feels off, this is the time to ask questions. A good buyer will walk you through the logic behind the offer and won’t rush you.
Step 2: Receive the Purchase Agreement
Next, the buyer sends over a written document called a Purchase and Sale Agreement (or PSA). This is the contract.
You’ll usually receive it:
As a PDF via email
Or through an e-sign platform like DocuSign
You do not need to print or scan anything. Today’s contracts are signed digitally from your phone or computer.
The agreement will typically include:
Buyer and seller names
Property address
Purchase price
Earnest money amount (usually $100–$1,000 as a show of commitment)
Closing date or time frame (e.g., “on or before September 30”)
“As-is” language (says you’re not responsible for repairs)
Title company information
Signatures for both parties
Step 3: Review the Contract Carefully
Take your time. Read the contract, even if it looks intimidating at first.
Focus on:
Price. Is it the amount you agreed on?
Timeline. Does the closing date work for you?
Conditions. Are there any unexpected clauses or strange terms?
Responsibility. Are you responsible for anything you didn’t expect?
If anything seems off, speak up. A professional buyer will gladly clarify or adjust the contract if something doesn’t align with the agreement.
You’re allowed to ask for:
A day to review
A call to walk through it together
A second opinion from a friend, family member, or attorney
Don’t sign until you feel clear.
Step 4: Sign Electronically
Once you’re comfortable, it’s time to sign.
If you’re using something like DocuSign:
Open the email
Click “Review Document”
Tap or click to add your initials/signature where prompted
Hit “Finish” when you’re done
It usually takes less than 5 minutes.
Once you sign, the buyer will countersign and send a final copy. You’ll both get a copy via email for your records.
You are not locked in forever. Most contracts include a short inspection or due diligence period if either party needs to back out.
Step 5: Title Company Gets the Green Light
After both signatures are in, the contract is sent to a title company, a neutral third party that handles:
Legal paperwork
Ownership transfer
Lien or debt searches
Preparing the closing documents
Holding and releasing the money
The title company is your ally. You’ll often receive a call or email from them to:
Introduce themselves
Request basic ID documents
Explain the process from their end
You can ask them anything. They’re used to working with sellers who’ve never done this before.
Step 6: Prepare for Closing Day
While the title company is doing its work behind the scenes, the buyer might schedule:
An inspection (if agreed upon)
A walkthrough or set of photos (usually for their lender or partner)
A check-in call to confirm you’re still good to go
You don’t have to move out right away. Your agreement should state your move-out timeline. If not, confirm it now.
Pro tip: If you need more time to move after closing, that can often be arranged in writing before the contract is finalized.
Step 7: Close the Deal
Closing usually happens at the title company or remotely via mobile notary.
What you’ll need:
A valid ID (driver’s license or passport)
Any keys, garage openers, etc.
Your bank account info (for wire transfer)
Your signature on a few documents confirming the sale
Once signed, the buyer sends their funds to the title company. You receive your payment via wire transfer or check, typically the same day (or next business day).
And that’s it, you’ve sold the property.
What If Something Comes Up Before Closing?
Life happens.
If you change your mind, something unexpected delays your move, or a new issue pops up (like a lien or family member dispute), communicate immediately.
In most cases, the buyer can work with you to:
Extend the closing
Adjust terms
Solve unexpected paperwork issues
It’s far easier to fix something before closing than after. Be honest. The contract isn’t a trap. It’s a tool to keep both sides accountable.
Simpler Than It Looks
The first time signing a contract can feel like a big deal, and it is.
But with the right team, a clear agreement, and a bit of guidance, it becomes a smooth, low-stress process.
Just remember:
Ask questions
Read everything
Don’t rush
And only sign when you feel confident
You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.
Written By:

Austin Beveridge
Chief Operating Officer
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