How to Buy a Home in California

Common questions

How much do I need for a down payment?

Less than most people think. Conventional loans can go as low as 3% down, FHA needs 3.5%, and a VA loan can be zero down for eligible veterans. On a $500,000 home, 3.5% is $17,500 — and down payment assistance can cover part or all of even that. The bigger cost to plan for is usually closing costs.

What credit score do I need to buy a home?

FHA loans start around a 580 score, and some lenders go lower with a larger down payment. Conventional loans usually want 620 or higher. A higher score gets you a better rate, but plenty of first-time buyers close with scores in the 600s. If yours needs work, we'll tell you exactly what to fix first.

Can I buy a home without a Social Security number?

Yes. We do ITIN mortgages for buyers who file taxes with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead of an SSN. You'll need a steady income history and a down payment, but you do not need to be a citizen or permanent resident to own a home in California.

How long does buying a home take?

Once you're under contract, most purchases close in 30 to 45 days. The part you control is the prep: getting pre-approved, gathering your documents, and being ready to move when the right house shows up. Pre-approval first is what keeps the timeline from slipping.

Should I get pre-approved before I start looking?

Yes — it's the single most useful first step. A pre-approval tells you the price range you can actually afford, and sellers in this market won't take an offer seriously without one. It takes a short conversation and a few documents, and there's no obligation to use us when you're done.