Home Buyer Planning Checklist

Buying a home goes more smoothly when you know what comes next. This checklist follows the usual order of a California purchase, from setting a budget to getting the keys. Every purchase is different, so use it as a planning aid and ask your lender, escrow officer and agent about your own situation.

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1. Set your budget

• Add up your monthly income, debts and savings so you know what payment is comfortable, not just what a lender may approve.
• Plan for more than the down payment: closing costs, inspections, moving, and a reserve for repairs after you move in.
• Check your credit reports for errors and avoid opening new credit or making large purchases until you close.
• Ask a lender about loan types you may qualify for and any down payment assistance programs available to you.

2. Get pre-approved

• Gather recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements and identification for your lender.
• Request a written pre-approval letter. Sellers usually expect one with an offer.
• Ask the lender for a written estimate of your monthly payment, including property tax, insurance and any HOA dues.
• Keep your finances steady: changing jobs or moving money around can delay loan approval.

3. Decide what you need

• List your must-haves (bedrooms, commute, parking, single level) separately from nice-to-haves.
• Choose two or three areas to focus on and visit them at different times of day.
• For condos and planned communities, plan to review HOA dues, rules and financial documents.
• Set up a saved search so new listings that match reach you quickly.

4. Tour homes and make an offer

• Take notes and photos at each showing; homes blur together quickly.
• Review recent comparable sales with your agent before deciding on price and terms.
• Understand the contingencies in your offer (inspection, appraisal, loan) and their deadlines.
• Have your earnest money deposit ready to send to escrow once your offer is accepted.

5. Escrow, inspections and loan

• Schedule a general home inspection promptly, and any specialist inspections it recommends.
• Read the seller's disclosures, the preliminary title report and any HOA documents carefully.
• Respond quickly to your lender's document requests and lock your interest rate when advised.
• Arrange homeowner's insurance before your lender's deadline.
• Track contingency removal dates with your agent so nothing lapses by accident.

6. Closing and move-in

• Review your closing disclosure and compare it with your loan estimate.
• Do a final walk-through to confirm the home's condition and any agreed repairs.
• Confirm wiring instructions by phone with your escrow officer using a number you already trust. Never rely on emailed wire instructions alone.
• Set up utilities, mail forwarding and a change of address.
• Keep your closing documents, warranties and inspection reports in one safe place.

This checklist is general information, not legal, tax or lending advice.