Buyer's Playbook
So You Wanna
Buy a House.
Buying in California is a contact sport. Prices move fast, inventory is tight, and hesitation costs you the house. Here's every step — no fluff, no filler — so you move with confidence.
The Process
Get Pre-Approved
Before you tour a single home, lock your financing. A pre-approval letter tells sellers you're not wasting their time. We'll connect you with lenders who move fast and don't jerk you around.
Know What You Want
Bedrooms, school district, commute, yard — nail down the dealbreakers. Your agent searches based on your actual life, not a Pinterest board. No dead ends.
Tour With Purpose
We don't do drive-by showings. Every property is pre-vetted — comps checked, neighborhood walked, HOA docs pulled. You see homes that match, period.
Make a Killer Offer
Your agent writes the offer, negotiates terms, handles contingencies. We structure deals that protect you without scaring off the seller. 30% of our deals close off-market.
Inspections & Appraisal
A home inspection is non-negotiable. We coordinate inspectors, review findings, renegotiate if something's wrong. The appraisal confirms value matches your loan.
Close & Get Your Keys
Final walkthrough, sign the docs, wire the funds. Your agent and escrow handle logistics — you show up, sign, and leave with keys. Welcome home.
Know Your Loan Options
Conventional
3–20% down · Best rates at 740+ credit
FHA
3.5% down · 580+ credit · Perfect for first-timers
VA
0% down · Active duty & vets only
Jumbo
Loans above $766,550 · Stricter requirements
Not sure which one? Our lending partners specialize in California real estate. They'll run the numbers and find the rate that saves you the most. No pressure.
Run the NumbersQuestions Everyone Asks
How much down payment do I need?
Conventional: 3% min. FHA: 3.5%. VA/USDA: zero down. 20% avoids PMI but isn't required. We'll match you with a lender who fits your situation.
Do I pay The Ave. as a buyer?
Usually no. The seller typically covers both agents' commissions. You get a dedicated agent, full representation, and expert negotiation at no direct cost.
How long does it take?
Offer to close: 30–45 days. Full timeline depends on inventory and how fast you find the right place. Some clients close in 3 weeks. Some search for 3 months.
What credit score do I need?
620+ for conventional, 580+ for FHA. Higher = better rates. Not there yet? Our lending partners have credit improvement plans that work in 60–90 days.
What are closing costs?
2–5% of purchase price. Covers lender fees, title insurance, escrow, prepaid taxes and insurance. We get you an estimate upfront — no surprises.
Should I skip the home inspection?
Absolutely not. $400–$600 now can save you tens of thousands. We never advise waiving inspection. Ever.