For Buyers
Buying a home in Elk Grove & Sacramento County
How buying a home works, step by step
Whether this is your first home or your fifth, knowing the process ahead of time takes the stress out of it. Here is how a typical purchase unfolds in Sacramento County.
The six steps to buying a home
- Talk with a lender and get pre-approved. A pre-approval tells you what you can comfortably afford and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. Compare loan types such as conventional, FHA, and VA.
- Decide what matters most. Make a short list of must-haves (bedrooms, commute, school area) and nice-to-haves. Elk Grove’s three zip codes each have a different feel, so location is a big part of this.
- Tour homes and review the data. Before you write an offer, we look at recent comparable sales so your price is grounded in what similar homes actually sold for.
- Write and negotiate an offer. Your offer covers price, earnest money deposit, contingencies, and timeline. I explain each term so you know exactly what you are agreeing to.
- Inspections, appraisal, and loan approval. During escrow you can inspect the home, review seller disclosures, and the lender orders an appraisal. Contingency deadlines protect you during this period.
- Final walk-through and closing. You sign loan documents, funds are wired, the deed is recorded with Sacramento County, and you get your keys.
Buyer questions, answered
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan. Some conventional loans allow as little as 3% down, FHA loans can allow 3.5%, and eligible veterans may qualify for a VA loan with no down payment. Your lender can show you options for your situation. Also plan for closing costs, which are separate from the down payment.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Many purchases close in about 30 to 45 days after an offer is accepted. The search itself can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on what you are looking for and what is available.
What is earnest money?
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit you make when your offer is accepted. It is held in escrow and usually applied toward your down payment or closing costs at closing.
Do I need a home inspection?
An inspection is strongly recommended. It helps you understand the condition of the home and can guide repair requests or negotiations during your contingency period.
What are first-time buyer programs?
California and local agencies offer programs that may help with down payment or closing costs for eligible buyers. A lender who knows these programs can tell you what you may qualify for.
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