First Time Home Buyers Guide

My Step-by-Step Home Buying Guide

Buying a home in Los Angeles can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. I’m here to guide you every step of the way by making the process smooth and helping you feel confident from start to finish. This journey starts with one thing: your goals. Whether you want a cozy condo or your dream home, I’ll create a custom game plan that puts your needs, timeline, and comfort first.

KEY TERMS

Pre-Approval
This is your first step! A lender will review your finances and give you a pre-approval letter so sellers know you’re ready to buy. You'll need it before making an offer.

Contingencies
These are built-in “checkpoints” that protect you during the purchase. They let you inspect the home, get your loan approved, and make sure the value is right before you're fully committed.

Closing Costs
These are extra costs (not included in the home price) for things like your loan, inspections, taxes, and escrow fees. I’ll give you a breakdown so you know what to expect.

Escrow
Escrow is a neutral third party that helps manage the sale from start to finish. They handle the paperwork and money to make sure everything is fair and official.

STEP 1: GETTING READY

Let’s talk goals:

  • Why are you buying?

  • When do you want to move?

  • What are your “must-haves” and deal-breakers?

  • What kind of neighborhood do you want to live in?

Get Pre-Approved
I’ll connect you with a great lender who will figure out what you can afford and give you a pre-approval letter.

Start Exploring the Market
We’ll explore neighborhoods and look at listings together, and start narrowing down your options.

Let’s Go House Hunting!
I’ll send you homes that fit your vibe, including exclusive off-market properties and we’ll tour them together in person or virtually.

STEP 2: YOU FOUND THE ONE

Now it gets exciting! Here’s what happens next:

We’ll build a strong offer:

  • I’ll run a market analysis to make sure you’re offering the right price.

  • We’ll review the purchase contract together.

  • I’ll help you craft the best offer and highlight your strengths as a buyer.

Negotiation Time
If the seller accepts, amazing! If not, we may go through a few rounds of negotiation (called a counter offer).

Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through every step.

STEP 3: ESCROW AND INSPECTIONS

Once your offer is accepted, we officially enter escrow and begin working toward closing. This is where my duties kick into high gear to protect your best interests and guide you through each critical step.

Here’s what I’ll be doing for you:

  • Ensuring your Earnest Money Deposit is submitted properly (typically around 3% of the purchase price).

  • Coordinating inspections to evaluate the home’s condition and help uncover any potential issues.

  • Reviewing all seller disclosures and reports with you, making sure nothing is missed or misunderstood.

  • Negotiating repairs or credits if problems arise during inspections, I’ll always keep your goals in mind.

  • Working closely with your lender as they order the appraisal to confirm the home's value.

  • Overseeing the title review process to ensure there are no legal or ownership issues that could affect your purchase.

Every step of the way, I’m here to protect you, advocate for you, and make sure no detail is overlooked.

STEP 4: CLOSING DAY

You’re almost a homeowner, this is the final stretch! I’ll be right by your side to make sure everything goes smoothly and nothing falls through the cracks.

Here’s what I’ll help you with:

  • Reviewing your closing documents together so you understand what you're signing and nothing is overlooked.

  • Scheduling and attending your final walk-through to confirm the property is in the agreed upon condition.

  • Helping you coordinate your utility transfers so everything is set for move in day.

  • Once escrow officially records the sale, I’ll deliver your keys, and just like that, you’ll own your very first home!

This is the moment we’ve been working toward, and I’ll make sure you finish strong with keys in hand.

CONGRATULATIONS ON BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME!

CONGRATULATIONS ON BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME!

It’s time to celebrate, you’re a Homeowner!

With my guidance, personalized support, and expert care every step of the way, we’ve officially made it to the finish line.
Now it’s time to celebrate this incredible milestone, we did it!