First-Time Buyer in Contra Costa? 10 Steps From Pre-Approval to Keys

Buying your first home is a big step — but it’s a series of small, manageable ones. Here’s the path most local buyers follow, and what to watch for at each stage.

1. Know your numbers

Start with the monthly payment you’re comfortable with — not the maximum a lender might approve. Include principal and interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, any HOA dues and mortgage insurance if you put down less than 20%. In California, property tax starts from a base rate of about 1% of the purchase price plus local voter-approved assessments, so check the actual tax rate for any home you consider.

Try the affordability calculator to see how income, debts, down payment and interest rate interact.

2. Get pre-approved

A pre-approval means a lender has reviewed your income, assets and credit. In competitive situations, sellers often expect one with your offer. Compare a few lenders on rate, fees and responsiveness.

3. Explore down payment help

You may not need 20% down. Conventional, FHA and VA loans have lower-down-payment options, and the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) offers programs for eligible first-time buyers. Program availability changes, so ask your lender what’s currently open.

4. Choose your towns

Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Concord, Martinez, Lafayette and Clayton each feel different — commute, schools, trails, downtowns and price points vary. Our community guides are a great place to compare. Always verify school assignment by address with the district.

5. Pick your agent and sign a buyer agreement

Since 2024, buyers working with an agent generally sign a written buyer representation agreement before touring homes. It spells out services and how your agent is compensated — ask questions until it’s crystal clear.

6. Tour with a plan

Keep a simple scorecard: must-haves, nice-to-haves and deal-breakers. Notice the street at different times of day, check commute times, and look past the staging to the bones of the house.

7. Write a strong offer

Price is only one part. Your deposit, down payment, contingency periods (inspection, appraisal, loan), closing timeline and a clean, complete package can all make your offer stand out. Your agent should show you recent comparable sales so you’re making a decision with real data.

8. Escrow, disclosures and inspections

Once accepted, you’ll open escrow and wire your deposit — always confirm wiring instructions by phone with a known number, since wire fraud is common. California sellers provide extensive disclosures; read every page and schedule your inspections promptly (general home, plus roof, sewer lateral, pest or others as needed).

9. Appraisal and final loan approval

Your lender orders an appraisal and finalizes underwriting. Avoid new credit, large purchases or job changes until you close.

10. Final walk-through and closing

Confirm agreed repairs and that the home is in the expected condition, sign your loan documents, and once the deed records — you get the keys.

This article is general information, not legal, tax or lending advice. Consult the appropriate licensed professional for your situation.