HELPFUL TIPS & INFO

The Buying Process

Buying a home is a major decision, and the process should feel clear and structured from the start. The steps below outline how we move from zero to the moment you receive the keys. Each stage is designed to keep you informed, prepared, and positioned to make confident decisions throughout the purchase.

STEP 1:

Get Pre-Approved

Before you start seriously shopping, I always recommend that clients speak with a Lender who will review your income, credit, and finances to determine how much you can borrow. The Lender then issues a "Pre-Approval" letter which shows sellers that your financing has already been reviewed and that you are a qualified buyer. Being ready with a Pre-Approval when shopping is key because it:

Means You're Ready to Make Offers

Clarifies Your Budget/Price Range

Strengthens Any Offer You Make

Prevents Surprises Later in the Process

STEP 2:

Home Search

Once you're armed with a Lender Pre-Approval, you're ready to shop. Finding the perfect home, property, or listing isn't always a quick process though. It can (and does in many cases) take several or more outings touring homes before we find the right one.

Once we find the right property and you are interested in making an offer, I pull comparable listing data and research the listing throughly. At that point we can have a discussion together on how we wish to proceed with making an offer.

Click Here to Search

STEP 3:

We Write a Strong Offer

When you're ready to make an offer, we will discuss the options and information together and then prepare a strategic offer designed to give you the best chance of winning while protecting your interests.

A "good offer" as they say, typically includes the below key elements at minimum. We also ensure we include anything that the Sellers may be asking to accompany offers. These are must have's in a good offer

Offer/Purchase Contract

Lender Pre-Approval Letter

Proof of Funds

STEP 4:

Escrow & Inspections

During Escrow (unless waived), we will have inspection contingency period that gives us the opportunity to conduct inspections of the property (i.e. whole home, roof, pest, and any other additional inspections that may be desired). I will typically setup, coordinate, and attend the inspections as the Buyer's representative, however the fees for the inspections are at the Buyer's expense.

Official reports/findings are supplied to you directly as the buyer upon payment or completion of inspection reports. Should issues arise from inspections, we will discuss the options of "Post Inspection Negotiations" whereby we may ask for a discount, concessions, credits etc.

NOTE: Escrow officially begins on the day after all parties have executed the Purchase Agreement.

NOTE: The Buyer's EMD (or Earnest Money Deposit) is due within 3-business days of the first day of Escrow.

STEP 5:

Loan Approval/Fund

Typically a day or two ahead of Close of Escrow (sometimes on the day of closing), the Lender will "fund" your loan with Escrow. At that point (granted all other elements are satisfied in Escrow), Escrow will be in a position to close.

A "Final Walkthrough" (aka Verification of Property) is also typically conducted a day or two ahead of Close of Escrow to verify that the property is in the expected and anticipated condition.

LAST STEP:

CLOSING DAY!!!

On the day of closing, the Escrow company will ensure all documents and funds are properly collected and ready for recording with the county. The Escrow company will then record the documents with the County and report such to the Buyers, Sellers and all parties.

Recordings can happen at different times of the day based on the County. Tyipcally recordings happen in the mid-mornings and mid-afternoons.

Get Started - Click Here!

Sean Staples | REALTOR®

I help homeowners, buyers, and investors throughout Roseville, Rocklin, Granite Bay, Loomis, Lincoln, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, and the greater Sacramento and El Dorado regions make smart, well-timed, and informed real estate decisions. Contact me today and let's talk about your plans and what you're looking to accomplish! Call me today at: (916) 360-8155!

LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website/blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or financial advice. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, real estate laws and regulations vary by location and can change over time. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a qualified legal or financial professional before making any decisions based on the information provided herein. Any opinions expressed on this blog are my own and do not reflect the views of any other organization or agency. By using this blog, you acknowledge and agree that you are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided.

The multiple listing data appearing on this website is owned and copyrighted by MetroList®/MLS and is protected by all applicable copyright laws. Information provided is for the consumer's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties the consumer may be interested in purchasing. All data, including but not limited to all measurements and calculations of area, is obtained from various sources and has not been, and will not be, verified by broker or MLS. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information. Last updated Thursday, March 12th, 2026.

The Buying Process

Contact Me

Call or Text: (916) 360-8155

Sean Staples | REALTOR®

Regions

Helpful Info

My Services