Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you will make, and a clear plan makes all the difference. This guide walks you through each step of buying a home in the Bay Area. We are Surbhi Gupta and Priyanka Chopra, California REALTORS® with eXp Realty of California, Inc., and we help buyers throughout Fremont, Union City, Newark, Hayward, Milpitas, and the surrounding area.
Define your goals and budget
Start by getting clear on what you want and what you can comfortably afford. Think about location, commute, home type, and must-have features, and set a realistic monthly budget that accounts for the mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and any HOA dues.
Get pre-approved for a mortgage
A lender pre-approval tells you how much you can borrow and makes your offer credible to sellers. It is one of the most important early steps, and we can connect you with trusted local lenders if you need one.
Search for the right home
With your budget and priorities set, we tour homes that fit. We help you compare neighborhoods, weigh trade-offs, and spot both the strengths and the potential issues in each property so you can move forward with confidence.
Make a strong offer
When you find the right home, we prepare a competitive offer based on recent comparable sales and current conditions. Price is only part of it. Terms, contingencies, and timing all shape how appealing your offer is to a seller.
Understand contingencies
Contingencies protect you during the transaction:
- An inspection contingency lets you evaluate the home condition
- An appraisal contingency addresses the home appraised value for your loan
- A loan contingency protects you while your financing is finalized
Inspections and disclosures
Once your offer is accepted, you review the seller disclosures and complete inspections. We help you read these carefully, understand what they mean, and decide how to respond, whether that is proceeding, requesting repairs, or renegotiating.
From accepted offer to closing
During escrow, your lender finalizes the loan, the appraisal is completed, and title and closing documents are prepared. We keep the process organized and keep you informed at every step, right through to getting your keys.
Costs to budget for
Beyond the down payment, plan for closing costs, inspection fees, homeowners insurance, property taxes, and any HOA dues on condos and townhomes. We will help you understand the full picture before you commit.
First-time buyer tips
- Get fully pre-approved before you start touring
- Learn what to expect at each stage so nothing feels like a surprise
- Review disclosures and inspection reports with a clear head
- Move at a pace that feels right for you, and never hesitate to ask questions
Home buyer FAQs
How do we start the home-buying process?
A good first step is a free consultation to talk through your goals, budget, and timeline, followed by getting pre-approved with a lender. From there we tour homes and build an offer strategy that fits you.
How much do I need for a down payment?
Down payment requirements vary by loan program, and some programs allow lower down payments. A lender can review your options, and we can connect you with trusted local lenders.
What is a contingency?
A contingency is a condition in your offer, such as an inspection, appraisal, or loan contingency, that gives you the ability to proceed, renegotiate, or withdraw based on what you learn.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Timelines vary, but many purchases close within about 30 to 45 days after an offer is accepted, depending on your financing and the terms of the contract.
Do I need a buyer agent?
A buyer agent represents your interests, helps you evaluate homes and offers, negotiates on your behalf, and manages the transaction to closing. We are glad to be that advocate for you.
Which areas do you serve?
We help buyers in Fremont, Union City, Newark, Hayward, and Milpitas, along with the greater San Francisco Bay Area.
Explore areas and start your search
Ready to explore where you want to live? See our area guides for Fremont, Union City, Newark, Hayward, and Milpitas. Planning to sell as well? Read our home seller guide, learn about our buyer and seller services, or browse frequently asked questions.
Ready to buy in the Bay Area?
Let’s talk. Your consultation is free, friendly, and pressure free, whether you are just starting to explore or ready to make an offer. Book a free consultation
Surbhi Gupta, REALTOR®
California DRE number 02314083
Priyanka Chopra, REALTOR®
California DRE number 02252583
Brokered by eXp Realty of California, Inc. (CA DRE number 01878277)
