Checklist for Home Buyers
1. Check Your Financial Readiness
Review your income, expenses, savings and credit.
Determine how much you can comfortably afford each month.
Remember that homeownership costs include more than the mortgage—property taxes, insurance, maintenance, HOA fees and utilities may also apply.
2. Determine How Much You Can Afford
Establish a realistic purchase-price range.
Consider your down payment and estimated closing costs.
Don't automatically purchase at the maximum amount a lender approves.
3. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Compare lenders and loan programs.
Get a pre-approval before seriously shopping.
A pre-approval helps you understand your purchasing power and makes your offer stronger.
4. Learn About Down Payment & Assistance Programs
Research conventional, FHA, VA and other qualifying loan options.
Ask about California and local first-time buyer assistance programs.
Some programs have income, location, credit or purchase-price requirements.
5. Find an Experienced Buyer’s Agent
Look for an agent who understands:
The San Diego market
Local neighborhoods and communities
Current pricing and comparable sales
Negotiation strategies
Inspections and disclosures
The escrow and closing process
6. Decide Where You Want to Live
Create a list of priorities:
Location
Commute
Schools
Neighborhood
Property taxes
HOA
Home size
Yard/outdoor space
New construction vs. resale
Future resale potential
7. Start Shopping for Homes
Your agent can help you identify properties that fit your criteria and arrange showings.
Don't just focus on how the house looks. Consider the property's location, condition, potential repairs, neighborhood and long-term suitability.
8. Make an Offer
Once you find the right home, your agent can help you evaluate comparable sales and determine an appropriate offer price.
Your offer may include:
Purchase price
Financing terms
Deposit
Contingencies
Requested credits or repairs
Proposed closing timeline
9. Complete Inspections & Due Diligence
After your offer is accepted, carefully investigate the property.
Depending on the property, this may include:
General home inspection
Termite inspection
Roof inspection
Sewer inspection
Plumbing/electrical review
Reviewing disclosures
Reviewing HOA documents
Checking permits
Evaluating potential repairs
10. Complete the Loan & Appraisal
Your lender will continue processing your mortgage application. The property may also need an appraisal to support the lender's valuation.
During this stage, avoid making major financial changes without speaking with your lender.
11. Review Your Closing Documents
Before closing, review your final loan and escrow documents carefully. Confirm that the numbers, credits and terms are correct and that you understand your financial obligations.
12. Close Escrow & Get the Keys! 🔑
Once all required conditions are satisfied, your loan funds, documents are recorded and the transaction closes.
Thinking About Buying Your First Home in San Diego?
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate the process alone. From determining your budget and finding the right neighborhood to negotiating your offer and getting through escrow, having an experienced real estate professional by your side can make the process easier and more confident.
I help first-time buyers throughout San Diego County understand the home-buying process, evaluate properties, negotiate offers and navigate the transaction from start to finish.
If you're thinking about buying your first home, let's talk about your goals and create a plan for your next step.