The process has a clear order to it, even though it doesn’t always feel that way from the outside.
1. Get Pre-Approved Before You Look
A mortgage pre-approval, not just a pre-qualification, tells you and any seller exactly what you can actually finance. Do this before you start touring homes, not after you’ve found one you love.
2. Define What You Actually Need vs. Want
Separate your must-haves (bedroom count, commute distance, budget ceiling) from your nice-to-haves before you start touring. It keeps you from getting emotionally attached to homes that don’t actually fit your real requirements.
3. Work With an Agent Who Represents You
A buyer’s agent owes you a fiduciary duty and typically costs you nothing extra to use. Since 2025, California law also requires you to sign a buyer-broker agreement before or alongside making an offer, so expect that conversation early in the relationship. There’s rarely a good reason to shop without one.
4. Tour, Then Make a Competitive Offer
In a competitive market, price isn’t the only lever. Contingencies, closing timeline flexibility, and how the offer is structured all matter. Your agent should walk you through these options for each specific offer.
5. Inspection and Contingency Period
Once your offer is accepted, you’ll typically have a defined period to complete inspections and review disclosures. This is your chance to negotiate repairs or credits, or in some cases walk away, depending on your contingencies.
6. Final Loan Approval and Closing
Your lender finalizes underwriting, you do a final walkthrough, and you sign closing documents. Escrow in California typically closes 30 to 45 days after you’re in contract.
7. Move In
Once the deed records, the home is yours.
If you’re starting this process and want a real walkthrough for your specific situation, get in touch.
