Buying a home in California is one of the most significant undertakings of your life — and like most significant undertakings, it goes much more smoothly with a clear plan. Whether you’re starting from scratch or already in the process, this 90-day action plan gives you a concrete roadmap from “thinking about buying” to keys in hand.
Days 1–30: Foundation
Week 1: Know Your Numbers
Before anything else, get a complete picture of your financial position:
- Pull your credit report from all three bureaus (AnnualCreditReport.com is free)
- Calculate your monthly gross income from all sources
- List all monthly debt payments: car, student loans, credit card minimums
- Total your liquid assets: savings, checking, investment accounts, retirement funds (note: retirement accounts can often be used for reserves)
- Determine how much you can put toward a down payment without depleting emergency reserves
Week 2: Optimize Your Credit
If your credit score is below 720, take 2–4 weeks to optimize it before applying:
- Pay down credit card balances to below 30% of each card’s limit (below 10% is ideal)
- Dispute any errors on your credit report in writing
- Do not open any new credit accounts
- Do not close any existing accounts
Week 3: Get Pre-Approved
Gather your documentation and connect with a mortgage advisor:
- Last 2 years: W-2s, tax returns, and if self-employed, business returns
- 30 days of recent pay stubs
- 2–3 months of bank statements for all accounts
- Photo ID
Apply with a wholesale mortgage broker to get access to competitive pricing across multiple lenders. Ask specifically for a fully-underwritten pre-approval — not just a conditional approval — for maximum credibility with sellers.
Week 4: Define Your Search
Get specific about what you’re looking for. Define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. Research target neighborhoods in depth: median prices, days on market, typical list-to-sale price ratios. Choose a buyer’s agent with deep experience in your target area.
Days 31–60: Search and Offer
Weeks 5–6: Active Search
Tour homes with clear criteria in mind. Don’t fall in love before the inspection. Understand what similar homes in the neighborhood have sold for — not just listed at. Follow new listings daily; in California’s market, well-priced homes can go into multiple offers within days.
Weeks 7–8: Make Offers
When you find the right property:
- Review all seller disclosures before making an offer
- Confirm your pre-approval letter is current and matches the purchase price
- Discuss offer strategy with your agent: price, contingencies, earnest money amount, and closing timeline
- Be prepared to move quickly — ask your lender to be available for immediate response
Days 61–90: In Escrow
Week 9: Open Escrow
Once your offer is accepted: deposit earnest money, complete any remaining loan documentation your lender requests, and schedule inspections promptly. Order the appraisal immediately (lenders typically do this within 1–3 days of opening escrow).
Weeks 10–11: Inspections and Underwriting
Complete all property inspections (general, pest, roof, sewer if applicable). Review inspection reports carefully and negotiate repairs or credits as needed. Respond immediately to any underwriter requests — delays here are the most common cause of late closings.
Week 12: Clear to Close
Once you receive final loan approval, your lender sends closing documents to escrow. Review your Closing Disclosure (you must receive this at least 3 business days before closing). Wire your closing funds. Sign loan documents. Wait for the lender to fund and title to record.
Closing Day: Congratulations
Once title records with the county, the home is yours. Your escrow officer or agent will confirm the recording and arrange key transfer.
Ready to Start Your 90 Days?
DiVita Home Finance has helped hundreds of California buyers navigate this process from pre-approval to keys. We’re based in Tiburon and serve buyers throughout Marin County and the Bay Area. Start your application online or contact us today — your 90 days starts now.
