Guide ยท Buyers
The buying guide: every step, explained before you take it.
Buying a home comes down to preparation: know what you can afford, get pre-approved, and understand each step before you commit. This guide walks through the full process in the San Gabriel Valley, from financial readiness to keys in hand.
The process
Eight steps to your new front door.
Get financially ready
Review your credit, savings, and monthly budget. Most conventional loans allow down payments as low as 3%, FHA loans allow 3.5%, and VA loans for eligible veterans allow 0%. Plan for closing costs, typically 2% to 5% of the purchase price, plus inspection and appraisal.
Get pre-approved
A pre-approval letter from a lender tells you exactly what you can borrow and makes your offer competitive. It also shows sellers you're serious.
Define your must-haves
City, commute, schools, home type, and budget. Communities like West Covina, Covina, La Puente, and Baldwin Park each offer different trade-offs between price, space, and convenience.
Search and tour
Hector curates listings that match your criteria and walks you through each home, comparing them against recent sales so you can spot value and red flags.
Make a strong offer
Your offer is built on comparable sales, market conditions, and your budget, then negotiated for price and terms that protect you.
Inspect and appraise
The home inspection reveals the property's true condition, and the appraisal confirms the value for your lender. You'll know exactly what you're buying.
Work through escrow
Escrow coordinates the title search, disclosures, repairs, and funding. Hector manages the timeline and keeps you updated on every milestone.
Close and get the keys
You review the final documents, sign, and receive the keys. The whole process is explained clearly, so closing day feels like a celebration, not a surprise.
Money matters
What buying really costs, beyond the price tag.
The purchase price is only part of the picture. Knowing the full cost upfront is what lets you shop with confidence and avoid surprises at closing.
First-time buyer hub-
Down payment
3% to 20%, depending on loan type
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Closing costs
Typically 2% to 5% of the purchase price
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Home inspection
A few hundred dollars, worth every cent
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Appraisal
Usually arranged and paid through your lender
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Property taxes & insurance
Prorated at closing and ongoing
Kind regards, Hector
Looking for a home in the San Gabriel Valley?
Tell Hector what you're looking for and he'll build your search around it, with clear guidance at every step from pre-approval to closing.