Buyer’s Guide

If you’re not buying with cash, it’s important to understand the difference between being pre-qualified and pre-approved. Pre-qualification is a quick, surface-level review of your financials. Pre-approval goes deeper: lenders verify your income, assets, and credit. In San Francisco’s competitive market, pre-approval carries much more weight—it gives sellers confidence that your financing is solid.

Pre-approval letters often expire, so it’s best to keep them current while you’re actively looking. When I represent sellers, I advise them to take pre-approved buyers more seriously, and I’ll often call the lender directly to confirm details. Going through the full pre-approval process also helps you get a realistic sense of your budget and minimizes surprises once you’re in contract. Bottom line: full pre-approval is essential to being competitive.

Before touring homes, create a clear list of your priorities. Consider:

• Type of property (single-family, condo, TIC, or multi-unit)
• Size and features (bedrooms, bathrooms, parking, outdoor space, move-in ready vs. fixer)
• Location (specific neighborhoods, proximity to work, transit, or lifestyle amenities)

Be realistic about trade-offs. Few homes will check every box, so focus on your true must-haves versus nice-to-haves.

Talk with your agent about timing. In San Francisco, homes are often listed for one to two weekends before an offer date is set. Once under contract, loan-financed purchases typically take 18–30 days to close. Plan accordingly so you know where you’ll live during your search and closing period.

After reviewing disclosures, we’ll put together your offer. My transaction coordinator will handle the paperwork—much of which can be signed electronically through DocuSign. Depending on the listing, we may submit at the set offer date, as-they-come, or even as a preemptive offer (when appropriate). I’ll advise you on which strategy makes the most sense.
A strong offer package usually includes:

• A cover letter from me highlighting price, terms, and my confidence in your financing (often after I’ve spoken directly with your lender)

• A personal letter from you to the seller (optional, but often impactful)

• The official purchase agreement and required disclosures

• Your lender’s pre-approval letter (or proof of funds for cash buyers)

• Signed acknowledgment that you’ve reviewed the disclosures

Once your offer is accepted, your earnest money deposit is wired to escrow. If you’re financing, your lender will finalize your loan approval at this stage.

A few days before closing, we’ll do a final walk-through to confirm the property’s condition. Once documents are signed, the loan is funded, and escrow records the deed with the city, the home is officially yours—and I’ll hand you the keys.