Your complete roadmap to purchasing a home in Santa Clarita Valley.
Follow this proven process to find and purchase your dream home.
Start by identifying your preferences: property type, desired features, and neighborhood. Monitor asking price trends to understand local market conditions and set realistic expectations.
Decide on your budget鈥攏ot just how much the mortgage company will give you. Calculate a comfortable monthly payment and account for new homeowner expenses like utilities, HOA fees, and maintenance.
Connect with a mortgage professional before house hunting. Financial issues, employment gaps, or credit problems can affect your approval amount. Getting prequalified shows sellers you're a serious buyer.
An experienced agent offers market knowledge, property identification skills, negotiation expertise, and guidance on neighborhoods and pricing. We're here to represent your best interests.
Take notes about what you like and don't like, and make sure to pay attention to details. Inspect the property thoroughly and explore the surrounding community during different times of day.
Work with your agent to craft competitive offers based on comparable properties and current market conditions. We'll help you structure an offer that protects your interests while appealing to sellers.
Most offers include inspection contingencies. A professional inspector will identify any major structural issues, safety concerns, or needed repairs before you proceed with the purchase.
Choose from fixed-rate, variable-rate, 15-year, 30-year, VA, FHA, or other specialized mortgage programs. We can connect you with trusted lenders who offer competitive rates.
The lender orders an independent appraisal to verify fair market value. This protects both you and the lender by ensuring the property is worth the purchase price.
Complete all documentation with your lender and title company to finalize ownership. On closing day, you'll sign the final papers, receive your keys, and officially become a homeowner!
Before you start falling in love with homes, get prequalified for a mortgage. This tells you exactly what you can afford and shows sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer. Many sellers won't even consider offers from buyers who aren't prequalified.