You don't need to have everything figured out to start. Get a feel for the process, understand the decisions, and take the next step when it makes sense for you.
Find your starting pointChoose the stage that sounds like you. This is a planning sequence, not a prediction of how long a purchase will take.
No account or contact details needed. Adjust your plan as things change.
After an accepted offer, inspections, financing, appraisal, and escrow follow the dates in your agreement. California DRE homebuying guide.
A contingency makes part of your obligation to buy conditional on a specified outcome. The wording, deadlines, and notices in your agreement determine your options.
Gives you an agreed opportunity to investigate the home and review findings. Depending on the contract, you may request repairs or credits, proceed, or cancel while the protection applies. A seller doesn't have to agree to a repair request.
Addresses whether the home's appraised value meets the contract's requirement. A low appraisal can change financing or the cash needed. It doesn't automatically reduce the price. Your options depend on the agreement and whether the protection remains in place.
Addresses obtaining the financing described in your agreement. Preapproval is a useful start, but it isn't final loan approval. Confirm outstanding lender conditions before deciding whether to remove a loan contingency.
Waiving or removing a contingency can increase your financial exposure, including risk to your deposit if you cannot close. Review the actual contract and removal process with your agent before deciding. This page doesn't set deadlines or replace advice about your agreement.
Use this checklist to organize your questions. Checking every box is a reminder, not an assessment of whether a home or offer is right for you.
Checks stay on this page only and reset when you reload.
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When you tour an older Craftsman, bungalow, or Spanish Revival, look beyond the finishes. These are useful questions for the specific home, not assumptions about every property.
Ask about foundation condition, seismic work, drainage, roof age, electrical and plumbing updates, and pest findings. A general inspection can point to questions that need a qualified specialist. A fresh finish doesn't answer them.
Compare the home's layout with available permit records. Ask about additions, converted spaces, and the work you're considering. Confirm feasibility and permit requirements before relying on future remodeling plans.
Explore Rockridge architectureFor a Rockridge property, check the address's sewer-lateral compliance status and who will handle any required work. Requirements and programs differ by city, so verify Berkeley properties separately.
EBMUD sewer-lateral resourcesFor pre-1978 housing, review the applicable lead-based-paint disclosures. Ask about other material concerns with qualified inspectors. Review the natural-hazard disclosures and obtain an address-specific insurance quote early.
EPA lead-disclosure guidanceExplore the Moving Here guide for neighborhood orientation, commute planning, and an easy way to ask questions. Educational guidance reviewed October 21, 2026. Your signed agreement and property-specific findings control.
Whether you're just exploring or have a particular home in mind, I'm happy to help you sort through the questions and figure out a useful next step.
Sean Walsh · Kai Real Estate
Agent DRE #01993112 · Broker DRE #02022092