If you are getting ready to start shopping for a home, this guide will help you understand the process, decide what type of home and where, and get you ready to start working with an agent by being prepared for the way they do business.
Know What to Expect
Whether you are a first time buyer or you just haven’t been in the market for a while the easiest way to get up to speed on buying a home these days is to download our free buyers guide. This short document outlines the buying process from shopping to closing and even how to maintain and care for your most valuable asset. You can also visit our buyers library for articles and information related to buying a home so you’ll be better informed about the process.
Understand Your Market
After you’re in the know, then it’s time to figure out where you want to live. Start by browsing our community pages and learn about different neighborhoods, amenities, recreation, schools and more. If you have it narrowed down, then it’s time to start watching the market so you know what to expect as far as pricing and home types in your area. Visit our market reports pages so you can catch up on what pricing trends have been doing.
Get Your Financing in Order
Ready to start shopping? First thing, you need to get pre-approved with a direct lender so you know how much you can afford and so you are ready to write an offer if you find that perfect home the first day out. We know several reputable lenders we can recommend for a no obligation quick pre-approval. They are all extremely knowledgeable and helpful and are ready to answer any questions you might have in addition to telling you how much you can afford. Want to find out how much you can afford even before you get pre-approved? Try one of the financial calculators at Bankrate.com in our lending section to estimate payments, affordability, and more.
Find the Perfect Home
Now it’s time to start looking so head over to our California Home Search Engine or Nevada Home Search Engine and put in the parameters for your search and you’ll see the same listings through the MLS that agents browse when they are helping clients. You can also get listings delivered to your inbox the day they hit the market by signing up for auto MLS updates or we can set it up for you if you fill out the buyer’s interest form.
Make it Happen
When you’re ready to get serious, give us a call so we can discuss your home buying plans and schedule a time to start looking at homes together.
If You're Not Ready Yet...
If you’re not ready to start shopping seriously yet, that’s ok. Download the free report, sign up for MLS alerts so you can watch the market, and sign up for free weekly market reports for the areas you are interested in. When you’re ready to buy, you’ll be a more educated buyer. You can also get our monthly newsletter or sign up for our online updates to get great tips and insight about the market and buying a home.