Buying
Should I get pre-approved before I start looking at homes?
Quick answer
Yes, pre-approval comes first. It sets your realistic price range and tells sellers you are a serious buyer from the very first tour.
The full answer
More detail, straight from Julian Cesar
Yes, pre-approval comes first. It sets your realistic price range and tells sellers you are a serious buyer from the very first tour. In competitive Inland Empire markets, offers without a pre-approval letter are often set aside. A pre-approval also surfaces credit or debt issues early, while there is still time to fix them.
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More Buying questions
How much do I need for a down payment to buy a home in the Inland Empire?
Most Inland Empire buyers put 3 to 20 percent down, depending on the loan type. Conventional loans commonly start around 3 to 5 percent, FHA around 3.5 percent, and VA and USDA loans can go lower for qualified buyers.
Read the answer BuyingIs now a good time to buy a home in the Inland Empire?
The honest answer depends on your timeline, budget, and target area, not on a headline. A ZIP-level market report turns the question from guesswork into data.
Read the answer BuyingHow do I win a multiple-offer situation on a Southern California home?
Strong offers win on a combination of price, terms, and certainty, not price alone. A full pre-approval, a flexible close date, and fewer contingencies can beat a slightly higher offer.
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Julian Cesar
Licensed Agent, CA DRE #02015349