Buying a Home in Los Angeles: The Steps From Search to Keys
From pre-approval to recording, here are the steps of a typical home purchase in Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.
News & Guides
Buying
Title Insurance in California: Owner’s vs. Lender’s Policies
Title insurance protects against covered problems with ownership that existed before you bought. Here is the difference between the two policies issued at most closings.
Written Buyer Agreements: How Home Tours Have Worked Since August 2024
Since August 17, 2024, buyers working with a REALTOR® sign a written agreement before touring a home. Here is what that agreement covers.
Contingencies in a California Purchase Contract: Inspection, Appraisal and Loan
California's standard purchase agreement gives buyers set periods to investigate the property, get an appraisal and secure a loan. Here is how those periods work.
How Escrow Works When You Buy or Sell a Home in California
Escrow is the neutral holding period between an accepted offer and closing. Here are the steps in a typical Southern California escrow.
CalHFA: California’s State Programs for First-Time Homebuyers
The California Housing Finance Agency offers first mortgages and down payment assistance through approved lenders. Here is where to find the current programs.
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage: The Numbers at November 2026 Rates
At Freddie Mac's November 5 averages (7.18% and 6.57%), here is how the monthly payment and total interest compare on the same loan amount.
2026 Conforming Loan Limit in Los Angeles County: $1,249,125
LA County sits at the 2026 high-cost ceiling of $1,249,125 for a one-unit home. Loans above that are jumbo loans.
Natural Hazard Disclosures in California: What the Report Covers
California sellers must disclose whether a property is in certain mapped hazard zones. Here is what the Natural Hazard Disclosure statement covers and where the maps come from.
Mello-Roos Special Taxes: What Buyers in Newer Communities Should Know
Many newer developments, including parts of Santa Clarita and other areas, are in Community Facilities Districts that levy a Mello-Roos special tax.