Steps to Buying a Home in California

Assess Your Needs 

Help prepare yourself for a positive experience by making a list of items you need and want in a home, such as which neighborhood you want to live in, size and amenities. Experts suggest a mortgage payment should not be more than one-third of your monthly income.

Consult the Experts 

Speaking with a real estate and/or mortgage loan professional can save you time and frustration.  They can assist you in the process of prequalifying for a home loan.  Homebuyers who have prequalified know exactly how much money they will be able to borrow for a home and prequalification can increase a buyer’s chances of having his offer accepted during negotiations.

House Hunting 

With the help of your realty expert, you can save time by limiting your search to homes that meet your financial and personal criteria.

The steps you can’t miss when completing escrow.

Contract

The sales contract or purchase agreement is the blueprint for the escrow process. It should clearly state the terms of the deal, and what must occur before escrow closes and the property changes hands. There should be no blank spaces in this agreement! Make sure that you read everything thoroughly on the contract before signing.

Contingencies

The contingencies are contractual conditions that must be met before escrow can close. Inspection, appraisal and financing are common examples, although contingencies can be written for any event or issue. Once the contingency is completed, the buyer and seller should sign a document removing the contingency from the contract.

Title Reports

Typically there are two title reports, a preliminary report and a final report with title insurance. Review the initial report to verify the legal description of the property and to learn about any liens, encumbrances, or other items affecting the property’s title.

Before closing day, be sure to have read and fully understand your estimated Settlement Statement. The buyer will deposit any escrow payments and sign necessary documents.

Get Insurance

You will have to buy homeowner’s insurance before you close escrow and take ownership of your new home. This will occur during the escrow process.

Closing

During escrow, title records are searched, taxes and other claims must be settled, loan and title documents are signed and the buyer is allowed a final walk through to make sure the condition of the property has not changed.  After all the necessary paperwork is filed and escrow has closed, the new owners receive the keys to their new home.

If any of these steps feel overwhelming, don’t worry! That’s what we’re here for! For all of your escrow needs and services, contact Eastland Escrows in Covina, California!