Understanding Your Contract Deadlines in Georgia Real Estate

Once your offer is accepted, your home purchase officially moves into the “under contract” phase — the part of the process where timing matters most.

Each date in your contract represents a milestone designed to protect your interests and keep your transaction on track. Below is a breakdown of what those deadlines mean and why they matter.

1. Binding Agreement Date (BAD)

This is the official start of your timeline — Day 0 in the contract. Every other deadline counts forward from this date.

If you’re ever unsure about which day is your Binding Agreement Date, ask your agent to confirm it with both parties in writing. It’s the anchor for everything that follows.

2. Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)

Your earnest money deposit shows good faith and commitment to the purchase.

What to know:

• Typically due within 3 business days of the Binding Agreement Date.

• Held securely in escrow by the closing attorney or brokerage.

• Credited back to you at closing.

Missing this deadline can put your contract at risk, so it’s one of the first steps your agent will help you complete after acceptance.

3. Due Diligence Period

This is your opportunity to learn everything you can about the property before you’re fully committed.

During this time, you’ll:

• Schedule your home inspection (and any specialty inspections).

• Review reports, disclosures, and neighborhood details.

• Decide whether to move forward, negotiate repairs, or withdraw.

Your Due Diligence Period typically lasts 7–10 days in Georgia. Once it ends, your earnest money becomes at risk if you terminate for reasons not covered by another contingency.

4. Financing & Appraisal Contingency

If you’re using a loan, this window protects you while your lender completes underwriting and the appraisal.

• Appraisal: Confirms the home’s value supports your loan amount.

• Financing Contingency: Gives you time to secure final loan approval.

Your lender, agent, and closing attorney work together closely during this stage to prevent any last-minute surprises.

5. Home Insurance

Most lenders require a homeowner’s insurance policy to be in place before closing.

Start collecting quotes early — this can help you compare coverage, avoid delays, and potentially save money.
If you’d like a few trusted providers for comparison, your agent can share a short list of local contacts.

6. Closing Date

Your proposed closing date is the target day ownership officially transfers and you receive your keys.

In Georgia, closings typically occur 30 days from contract acceptance, though this can vary depending on financing, title, or appraisal timing.

Your Savvy Estates ATL agent and transaction coordinator will confirm all final details as you approach the finish line.

Your Role vs. Our Role

Final Thoughts

Real estate timelines can feel fast-paced — but when everyone stays proactive and informed, the process moves smoothly.

At Savvy Estates ATL, our role is to help you stay ahead of every key date, so you can focus on preparing for your new home with confidence.

Have questions about your contract or next steps?
Contact your Savvy Estates ATL agent anytime — we’re here to make sure you never miss a beat on your way to closing.