I want to buy a house. I like your house. I may even walk through your house with my realtor.
We submit an offer.
Your realtor presents our offer to you. You think about it and accept the offer, possibly making some contingencies of your own.
Deal approved. Sale Pending.
Now, I will want an inspection. I will need an appraisal. I need to finalize the loan process. All this prior to closing. Pending no issues during the "due dilligence" phase of inspection and appraisal, we aim for "x" date.
A house sale is pretty cut and dry as long as the inspection does not reveal major problems and the appraisal comes back in line with the amount looking to be financed. Selling an entire company is going to be much more involved.