Buying your first home: the process, step by step

The process, start to finish

1. Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. A pre-approval involves a lender actually verifying your income, assets, and credit — it's what sellers expect to see attached to a competitive offer.
2. Set a real budget, not just a max loan amount. Property taxes (roughly 1.1–1.25% of purchase price annually in most of Santa Clara and Alameda County, plus any local assessments), insurance, and HOA dues where applicable all add to the monthly number a lender's max approval won't show you.
3. Work with an agent who represents you, not the listing. A buyer's agent is typically paid out of the transaction, not billed to you directly, and their job is to negotiate on your side.
4. Tour with a checklist, not just a gut feeling. Roof age, HVAC condition, foundation signs, and any visible water damage are worth noting on every showing, even ones you're excited about.
5. Make an offer with contingencies you understand. Inspection, appraisal, and loan contingencies each protect you differently — know what you're waiving before you waive it.
6. Get an independent inspection, even in a competitive market where it's tempting to skip it. It's the clearest picture you'll get of a home's actual condition before you own it.
7. Close. Final walkthrough, signing, and funding — typically the fastest-feeling part of the process after everything before it.

First-time buyer programs worth asking about

California and several counties offer down-payment assistance and first-time buyer loan programs (CalHFA is the most commonly referenced statewide program). Eligibility, income limits, and terms change, so treat any specific program details as a starting point for a conversation with a lender rather than a guarantee — a broker or lender can tell you what you currently qualify for.