Question 1

How much should I have saved for a down payment?

Accepted Answer

It depends entirely on the loan. Some programs allow a low down payment; others expect more. A larger down payment generally means a smaller loan and a lower monthly payment. The only way to get a real answer is to talk to a loan officer about your situation — anyone quoting you a number without doing that is guessing.

Question 2

What is included in closing costs?

Accepted Answer

Typically loan origination and lender fees, an appraisal, title insurance, escrow fees, recording fees, prepaid property taxes and homeowners insurance, and any inspections you order. Your Loan Estimate lists them, and escrow can give you figures specific to your transaction.

Question 3

How long does the buying process take?

Accepted Answer

Commonly around 30 to 45 days from accepted offer to closing, covering inspection, appraisal, underwriting and the final walkthrough. It varies with the loan type, the property and how quickly the parties respond.

Question 4

What is the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Accepted Answer

Pre-qualification is informal and based on what you tell the lender. Pre-approval involves verification of income, credit and assets. Pre-approval is what a seller wants to see attached to an offer.

Question 5

Can I negotiate the asking price?

Accepted Answer

Always. The asking price is the seller's starting position, not a fact. How much room there is depends on the property, how long it has been listed, and what else is available at the time.

Question 6

What should I look for during a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

The major systems — roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical — plus foundation, drainage, water intrusion, pests and anything affecting safety. Your inspector provides a written report; read it and ask about what you do not understand.

Question 7

How do I research an area before I buy there?

Accepted Answer

Visit at different times and days. Look at what has sold nearby and what it sold for. Check the city's planning and permit records for what is being built. Look up school information directly through the district and the California Department of Education, and any other data that matters to you through the primary source. We can pull sales data for any area — but on questions about who lives somewhere, fair housing law requires us to point you to the public sources rather than characterize a neighborhood for you.

Question 8

How do I determine the right asking price?

Accepted Answer

By looking at comparable sales, current competition, and the condition of your home — then deciding what you would do if the first two weeks disagree. Pricing too high costs you the period when a listing gets the most attention; pricing too low leaves money behind. A written analysis should show you the reasoning, not just a number.

Question 9

Should I make repairs before selling?

Accepted Answer

Address the major items — roof, foundation, HVAC, anything affecting safety. Cosmetic issues are often negotiated instead, since many buyers plan their own updates. What you must not do is leave a known problem undisclosed.

Question 10

How long will my home be on the market?

Accepted Answer

It depends on price, condition, location and what else is competing at the time, and it changes through the year. We can show you what comparable homes near you have actually taken recently rather than quote you an average.

Question 11

What is the difference between listing price and sale price?

Accepted Answer

The listing price is what you ask. The sale price is what a buyer agrees to pay. Which is higher depends on the market at that moment.

Question 12

Can I negotiate after receiving an offer?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can accept, reject, or counter. Negotiation continues until both sides agree or one walks away. Evaluate each offer on its terms — price, financing, contingencies, timing.

Question 13

What does it cost to sell?

Accepted Answer

Brokerage compensation as agreed in writing, escrow fees, title insurance, county and city transfer taxes, prorated taxes and HOA dues, any negotiated repairs or credits, and required reports. All commissions are negotiable and are not set by law. Ask for a written net sheet before you accept an offer.

Question 14

Can I sell while I still owe on the mortgage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The sale proceeds pay off your loan through escrow and you receive what remains. If you owe more than the home is worth, that is a different conversation and worth having early with both your lender and a tax professional.

Buyer & seller resources

Getting started

During your search

Making an offer

From acceptance to keys

Frequently asked questions

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