"Your San Diego Real Estate Expert"

Buying a Home

Home. It's the most important purchase you'll ever make. As an experienced agent, I understand the difference between buying a house and finding your home. Let me show you how to make the process smooth and trouble-free.

The Home Buying Process

BEFORE YOU BUY

Preparation is key when purchasing a property. From down payments and mortgage prequalification to understanding the type of home that will meet your needs and satisfy your wants, I can make sure your financial ducks are in a row and your expectations are grounded in reality when preparing to buy.

THE SEARCH

Selecting your perfect home will require research, expert guidance and knowledge of the local market, and you'll need to consider what it is you're looking for. I can help you find the place that fits your taste, your budget, and your lifestyle. I'm a home hunter's best friend.

MAKING THE PURCHASE

So, you've found the perfect home that meets all your criteria, from a great location to just the right square footage. As your trusted agent, I will guide you through the logistical - and emotional - challenges of the purchase process, to ensure you are in a solid position before you sign on the dotted line.

FAQ'S

How much money do I need to buy a home?

Most buyers put anywhere from 3%–20% down, depending on the loan type. There are also closing costs, which are typically 2–3% of the purchase price. However, there are different programs that give you other options. If you would like more I can get you connected with my preferred lender to see what’s available.

Do I need to get pre-approved before looking at homes?

Yes. A pre-approval shows sellers you are serious and financially qualified. In competitive markets, offers without one are rarely accepted.

What happens after my offer is accepted?

Once your offer is accepted, the home goes into escrow. During this time you will:

If you would like to have a detailed process, let’s schedule a meeting and I can go over my step by step guide.

What is earnest money?

Earnest money is a good-faith deposit that shows the seller you are serious. It is usually 1–3% of the purchase price and goes toward your down payment or closing costs. The higher the deposit, the more serious a seller knows you are.

What are contingencies?

Contingencies protect you as the buyer. Common ones include:

Inspection contingency
Loan contingency
Appraisal contingency

To know more, schedule a session with me.

These allow you to investigate the property and financing before fully committing.

How long does escrow usually take?

In California, escrow typically lasts 21–30 days, depending on the contract and loan process. However buyers have been offering shorter escrow times to be more competitive.

When do I actually get the keys?

You usually receive the keys after the loan funds and the sale records with the county, which is typically the same day or the next day after closing.

Should I skip the home inspection if there are multiple offers?

Even in competitive markets, inspections are extremely important. They help identify issues that could cost thousands later. This is where my contacts come in. I work with great inspectors that are very diligent and detailed.

What costs should I expect at closing?

Typical closing costs include:

How long does the whole buying process take?

From accepted offer to keys is usually 3–4 weeks, but finding the right home can take anywhere from a few days to several months.

To learn more about Buying or Selling a home, reach out to me.

CONTACT ME FOR A DETAILED BUYER'S GUIDE