# Due diligence period

> In Georgia, the days after your contract becomes final when you can inspect the home and walk away for any reason, with your earnest money back. It ends at 11:59 p.m. on the last day, and it doesn't move for weekends or holidays.

By David Knorr, founder of BuyWise Home. Last reviewed October 28, 2026. Web page: https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/due-diligence-period

## Why it matters to you

Everything you want to learn about the home, and everything you want to ask the seller for, has to happen inside it. See [Step 6: Due diligence](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/due-diligence), and work out your exact deadline with the [deadline calculator](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/tools/due-diligence-deadline).

## Related

- [Step 5: Make an offer](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/make-an-offer)
- [Option money](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/option-money): A small payment to the seller for the right to walk away during due diligence.
- [Earnest money](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/earnest-money): A good-faith deposit held in escrow and credited to you at closing.
- [Binding Agreement Date](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/binding-agreement-date): The day the contract becomes final. Most Georgia deadlines count from it.
- [Home inspection](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/home-inspection): A visual check of the home's condition by a professional inspector.

_General information based on the standard Georgia REALTORS® purchase contract and public guidance. Your own contract decides: read it, and ask your agent or closing attorney about anything that matters. Not legal or financial advice._