Buyers Guide

A step-by-step guide to Buying a home.

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How it works

🏡 California Home Buyer’s Guide

 

Welcome to the Smart Way to Buy a Home

Buying a home in California doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, it can be an exciting, well-organized, and empowering experience. At My Progressive Homes, we take the stress and confusion out of the process and walk you through each step — from your first question to closing day.

 

🔹 Step 1: Let’s Talk About What You’re Looking For

Every homebuyer is different. That’s why we start with a conversation — not a sales pitch. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, we take the time to understand your:

  • Budget and financing options

  • Desired neighborhoods or school zones

  • Timeline and personal goals

  • Must-haves vs. nice-to-haves

We’ll help match you with the perfect property — and the right agent if you don’t already have one.

 

🔹 Step 2: Get Pre-Approved (if needed)

Not sure what you can afford? We can help you connect with lenders who specialize in:

  • First-time buyer programs

  • Self-employed/1099 income

  • FHA, VA, and conventional loans

  • Low down payment options

Already pre-approved? Great! We’ll review your approval to make sure it aligns with your goals and timeline.

 

🔹 Step 3: Start the Home Search

This is where it gets exciting. You’ll work with a licensed, knowledgeable real estate agent who will:

  • Set up customized home alerts based on your criteria

  • Schedule showings and open house tours

  • Help you evaluate homes and avoid costly mistakes

You’ll never feel rushed. We move at your pace and provide honest insight every step of the way.

 

🔹 Step 4: Make an Offer With Confidence

Found the right home? We’ll help you:

  • Review market data to make a smart offer

  • Structure your offer for maximum strength

  • Handle negotiations with the seller

  • Navigate contingencies and deadlines

This is where experience really counts — and we’ll make sure you’re protected and informed.

 

🔹 Step 5: Get Through Escrow and Close Smoothly

Once your offer is accepted, the real work begins — inspections, appraisals, loan underwriting, title review, and more. We help manage the timeline and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.

Our team communicates with your lender, escrow officer, and agent to keep the deal moving.

 

🔹 Step 6: Get the Keys and Celebrate

Closing day is the best part. We’ll make sure you understand every step of the process, get all your questions answered, and walk into your new home with total confidence.

 

🔑 Why Work With Us?

  • 30+ years of experience in real estate and lending

  • Trusted by buyers across California

  • Personalized support — not a one-size-fits-all approach

  • Access to off-market listings, first-time buyer programs, and local insights

 

📞 Let’s Find Your Home Together

Whether you’re ready to buy now or just starting to explore your options, we’re here to help.

👉 Call us today at 818-717-7172
Or fill out the contact form below to schedule a free buyer consultation.

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Do you need an agent?

Buy or sell your home with Our agents. House prices, inspections, negotiations and other services are included in the house price.


Here are the most frequently asked questions about selling your home

The short answer: less than you might think.
Many homebuyers believe they need 20% down, but that’s not always the case. FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down, and some conventional loans go as low as 3%.

If you’re a veteran or buying in a rural area, you may qualify for zero-down programs like VA or USDA loans. We’ll help you explore all your financing options and connect you with lenders who offer the best terms for your situation.

Yes — always.
Getting pre-approved not only shows sellers you’re serious, it also helps you understand what you can comfortably afford. It puts you in a stronger negotiating position and prevents wasted time on homes outside your range.

We’ll connect you with trusted lenders who can issue fast, reliable pre-approvals so you’re ready when the right home hits the market.

Most lenders look for a credit score of at least 620, but many programs exist for scores lower than that. FHA loans often work with credit scores in the 580–600 range, and other specialty programs may accept alternative credit data.

We’ll review your credit report with you, help identify areas for quick improvement, and match you with lenders who work with your specific credit profile.

From pre-approval to closing, most home purchases in California take 30 to 45 days once you’re under contract.

The full process — including getting pre-approved, searching for a home, making an offer, and negotiating can vary depending on your readiness and the local market. Some buyers find their dream home in a week. Others take a little longer.

We move at your pace fast when needed, thorough when it counts

Besides your down payment, you’ll want to budget for a few key costs:

  • Closing costs (usually 2%–5% of the purchase price)

  • Home inspection fees

  • Appraisal fees

  • Property taxes and insurance

  • Moving expenses and immediate repairs

We walk you through all expected costs upfront — no surprises, no guesswork. You’ll always know what’s coming and how to prepare for it financially.