Buyers' Guide To Your Dream Home

Buying Your SoCal Home

Why use Seraj Realty Group to represent you in the home buying process?

Any major purchase requires research, careful analysis, consideration, and thought. Home buying isn't any different! Determining the right location, the number of bedrooms or bathrooms needed, and outdoor space is the easier things. However, there are many other factors to think about in your home search. From your initial search to the moment you get the keys to your new home, we will be there, guiding you through the process. We can even help connect you with mortgage professionals to get the best rates. 

 

As area experts, we can help educate you on the different neighborhoods, schools, and other local community amenities that suit your lifestyle. 

 

We have not only worked in an array of communities, but also with different types of buyers. Whether you are new to this or a pro, whether your circumstances are standard or completely unique, whether you are an investor or luxury buyer, Seraj Realty Group is committed to provide luxury level services to every single client. 

Steps to Buying a Home (Financing):

Step 1: Check Your Credit Report & Score

Before getting a mortgage or any kind of loan, you should always check your credit. According to the law, you're allowed to receive one free copy of your credit report per year. You can do this by visiting Annualcreditreport.com. Scores range from approximately 300 to 850; generally, the higher your score, the better mortgage interest rate you'll qualify for. Don't forget to check your report for errors. If there are any, dispute them. It may help your credit score. You can also check your credit score for free at www.creditkarma.com.

Step 2: Figure Out How Much You Can Afford

You can calculate how much you can afford by starting online. There are several online mortgage calculators, including our mortgage calculator on this page, that will help you calculate an affordable monthly mortgage payment. Don't forget to factor in money you'll need for a down payment, closing costs, fees (such as fees for escrow, appraisal, inspection, etc.) and the costs of remodeling or furniture. Remember that you don't always have to put down 20 percent as your parents once did. There are loans available with little to no down payment. An experienced home loan expert can help you understand all your loan options, closing costs, and other fees.

Use The Mortgage Calculator Below For Your Monthly Mortgage Payment:

Mortgage Calculator

Amount of Loan
 
Annual Interest Rate
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Term of Loan
Years

Does not include any taxes or fees.
Please consult a financial professional.

Step 3: Find the Right Lender 

To find the right mortgage lender it’s best to shop around. Get recommendations from your friends and family and check with the Better Business Bureau. Talk to at least three or four mortgage lenders. Ask lots of questions and make sure they have answers that satisfy you. Make sure to find someone that you are comfortable with and who makes you feel at ease.

Once you have the right mortgage lender, make sure you get a pre-approval. Qualifications are only a guess based on what you tell the lender and are no guarantee, whereas a pre-approval will give you a better idea of how big a loan you qualify for. The lender will actually pull your credit and get more information about you. That way, when you're ready to look for the right home, you can narrow down your search based on how much you are actually pre-approved for. 

Step 4: Look for the Right Home

Make a list of the things you'll need to have in the house. Ask yourself how many bedrooms and bathrooms you'll need and get an idea of how much space you desire. How big do you want the kitchen to be? Do you need lots of closets and cabinet space? Do you need a big yard for your kids and/or pets to play in?

Once you've made a list of your must-have's, don't forget to think about the kind of neighborhood you want, types of schools in the area, the length of your commute to and from work, and the convenience of local shopping. Take into account your safety concerns as well as how good the rate of home appreciation is in the area.

Step 5: Make an Offer on the Home

Now that we've found the home you want, we are ready to make an offer. We will help you write a compelling offer that gives you the best chance of convincing the homeowner to sell to you. Remember that price is only one factor that can convince the seller to accept your offer. We can also make your offer more compelling with other compromises that aren't important to you, but are important to the seller (like removing certain contingencies). Once your offer is accepted by the seller, you'll make an earnest, which is money that goes in escrow to give the seller a sign of good faith.

Step 6: Get the Right Mortgage for Your Situation 

There are many different types of mortgage programs out there, but as a first-time home buyer, you should be aware of the three basics: adjustable rate, fixed rate and interest-only.

Adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) are short-term mortgages that offer an interest rate that is fixed for a short period of time, usually between one to seven years. After that, the interest rate can adjust every year up or down, depending on the market. These are good for people who don't plan on living in their home very long and/or are looking for a lower interest rate and payment.

Fixed-rate mortgages are more traditional and offer a fixed interest rate (and thus a fixed monthly payment) for a longer period of time, usually 15 or 30 years, though they're available in 20 or 25 year terms. These are good for people who like a predictable payment and plan on living in their home for a long time.

Both fixed and adjustable rate mortgages can have an interest-only payment. What this means is that for a certain amount of time during the loan term, you're allowed to pay only enough to cover the interest portion of your payment. You can still pay principal when you wish, but don't have to if your budget is tight. There is a myth that with interest-only mortgages, you don't build equity. This is not necessarily true, since you can build equity through home appreciation. The benefit to interest-only mortgages is that you increase your cash flow by not paying principal.

Remember to ask your mortgage lender lots of questions about which mortgage is right for you and your situation.

Step 7: Close on Your Home

Make sure you get a home inspection before you close. It will be well-worth the money spent since it ensures the property's structural soundness and good condition.

Setting the closing date that is convenient to both parties may be tricky, but can certainly be done. Remember that you may have to wait until your rental agreement runs out and the seller may have to wait until they close on their new house.

Be sure you talk to your mortgage lender to understand all the costs that will be involved with the closing so there are no surprises. Closing costs will likely include (but are not limited to) your title fees, appraisal fees, escrow fees, inspection fees, and points you may have bought to buy down your interest rate.

Step 8: Move In!

You've got your mortgage, closed the deal and now it's time to move in! Whether you use a mover or not is up to you, depending on your financial situation and how much stuff you have to move; perhaps also, whether you have a lot of friends willing to help you move. Either way, you're done with the home buying process! Just start unpacking and start enjoying your first home! Buying a home for the first time doesn't have to be a hassle if you're prepared and you know what to do and when to do it. An experienced mortgage lender and knowledgeable real estate agents like Seraj Realty Group are the key to helping you have a smooth home buying experience!

Steps to Buying a Home (Cash Buyer):

 

Step 1: Figure Out How Much You Can Afford

Calculate your budget based on how much you are willing to spend on the purchase of a home. Are you buying as an investor? Are you downsizing and retiring? Is it a secondary vacation home? Or are you buying it for yourself and your family? Don't forget to factor in money you'll need for a down payment, closing costs, fees (such as fees for escrow, appraisal, inspection, etc.) and the costs of remodeling or furniture. Remember that you don't always have to put down 20 percent as your parents once did. 

The benefit of buying a home with cash is that your offer is seen as more competitive. It gives the seller a greater sense of security because it removes uncertainty from the transaction, avoids problems caused by lender requirements, and allows the sale to proceed quickly. 

Step 2: Look for the Right Home

Make a list of the things you'll need to have in the house. Ask yourself how many bedrooms and bathrooms you'll need and get an idea of how much space you desire. How big do you want the kitchen to be? Do you need lots of closets and cabinet space? Do you need a big yard for your kids and/or pets to play in?

Once you've made a list of your must-have's, don't forget to think about the kind of neighborhood you want, types of schools in the area, the length of your commute to and from work, and the convenience of local shopping. Take into account your safety concerns as well as how good the rate of home appreciation is in the area.

Step 3: Make an Offer on the Home

Now that we've found the home you want, we are ready to make an offer. We will help you write a compelling offer that gives you the best chance of convincing the homeowner to sell to you. Remember that price is only one factor that can convince the seller to accept your offer. We can also make your offer more compelling with other compromises that aren't important to you, but are important to the seller (like removing certain contingencies). Once your offer is accepted by the seller, you'll make an earnest, which is money that goes in escrow to give the seller a sign of good faith.

Step 4: Close on Your Home

Make sure you get a home inspection before you close. It will be well-worth the money spent since it ensures the property's structural soundness and good condition.

Setting the closing date that is convenient to both parties may be tricky, but can certainly be done. Remember that the seller may have to wait until they close on their new house.

Closing costs will likely include (but are not limited to) your title fees, appraisal fees, escrow fees, inspection fees, and points you may have bought to buy down your interest rate.

Step 5: Move In!

You've closed the deal and now it's time to move in! Whether you use a mover or not is up to you, depending on your financial situation and how much stuff you have to move; perhaps also, whether you have a lot of friends willing to help you move. Either way, you're done with the home buying process! Just start unpacking and start enjoying your first home! Buying a home for the first time doesn't have to be a hassle if you're prepared and you know what to do and when to do it. Knowledgeable real estate agents like Seraj Realty Group are the key to helping you have a smooth home buying experience!

Newest Listings on the Market:

$645,000
4 Beds 3 Baths ACTIVE Status
Nestled in a cozy Cul-De-Sac, this gorgeous move-in ready/updated home is part of the prestigious Ana Verde Community. Starting from the entry, alluring driveway with beautiful and colorful landscaping welcomes you into your home. Once you open the front door, spacious living room greets you with ample light that brightens your day. Before heading into the kitchen, dining, and family room; there is an extra room and a bathroom to the left, adjacent to the garage that can be used in various ways according to your own need and imagination. Heading into the kitchen area, wide entry provides the connectivity with other areas of the house, but at the same time providing the privacy and a sense of separateness. To the right, cozy fireplace and carved in area for your TV can add additional utility to the area. Middle section of the kitchen/family room area can be utilized in different ways: considering the visibility from the entrance, it can be used as a focal point of the first floor and be the exclamation mark for your interior design. To the left, granite counter top kitchen area with sufficient cabinetry and a pantry in pristine condition will take your storage capacity up a notch, awaiting your culinary skills to kick in and thrive for your family meals. You can access patio from the kitchen area with covered section in concrete attached to the kitchen area and an open area with bricks, awaiting for your creativity to become reality for multiple occasions and purposes. When you walk pass the entry way leading into the kitchen area, you can see the stairway leading up to the 2nd floor of the house to the right side. When you reach 2nd floor, additional family living room greets you with large windows and glass door to the right and a balcony beyond. This captivating custom made balcony was installed by the current owner of the property, which adds to the uniqueness, quality, and craftsmanship to this home. It provides cover for the ground floor patio and additional outdoor area for the 2nd floor to enjoy your private time with your loved one or yourself. During the daytime, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the hills of Palmdale. During the nighttime, you can enjoy the quietness and nightlights of Palmdale. To the left of the 2nd floor family room, two spacious bedrooms will give you comfort and rest with enough storage with built in closets. At the end of the 2nd floor hallway, roomy master bedroom awaits with built in shower, dual sink, and a spa tub that will provide relaxation and relief to your exhausted body and mind. Spacious walk-in closet and vaulted ceiling will also add to the quality of the master bedroom. New hardwood flooring throughout, crown moulding, door casings, base moulding, custom built balcony, frontside and backside landscaping/pavers, kitchen recessed light, built in bookcase for 2nd fl family room, garden retaining wall, all new trees planted, new sprinkler line, and outside wall stone decoration, are all the updates made by the owner. Walking distance to Anaverde park, foothill park, hiking trails, Anaverde Hills School. Close to Lake Palmdale, Antelope Valley Mall, restaurants, groceries, shopping, etc. Your New Desert Paradise Awaits~

37109 Kingcup Ter, Palmdale

Courtesy of , Eui Chang - CA DRE#

$3,375,000
4 Beds 6 Baths ACTIVE Status
Explore a completely renovated beautiful Spanish Modern Home in the mid-Wilshire area. This meticulously renovated home has 4 bedrooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms, a 2-car garage, as well as a motor court - plus a separate new ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit). This home was taken down to the studs and re-imagined, resulting in a brand-new floor plan that maximizes functionality and style. Step inside to discover an open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living room, kitchen, and dining area. The interior details are exquisite and include recessed lighting throughout, a built-in sound system, a Ring alarm system, arched walls, beautiful 7 1/4-inch wood plank flooring, and recessed wall niches that lend an air of sophistication and attention to detail. This kitchen features an oversized island, an adjoining oversized pantry, and a well-appointed laundry room with a built-in sink and ample counter space. In the living room area, a cozy fireplace provides a focal point, while vistas of greenery can be enjoyed from every direction, and an oversized patio leads to a lush backyard. You can step outdoors onto the airy covered patio to relax and enjoy a constant breeze. The primary bedroom is a true sanctuary, offering an expansive 8x18 sf walk-in customized closet, a large skylight providing natural sunlight, and a built-in dressing table. The en-suite bathroom is equally impressive, featuring an oversized walk-in curbless shower with a bench, clawfoot tub, his and her sinks, and vanities. French doors in the primary bedroom open to another 12 X 14 sf patio overlooking the beautiful backyard. All the secondary bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. They also feature large walk-in closets ensuring privacy and convenience. Beyond the rotunda hall, nestled among the upstairs bedrooms, lies a charming hideaway study. The property also includes a fully functional ADU with its own kitchen, bedroom, living area, and bathroom, providing endless possibilities for additional income or a private detached workspace. Parking is a breeze with a 2-car garage, a new concrete driveway, and a motor court that can accommodate up to 6 cars. The backyard is surrounded by tall privacy hedges and equipped with an in-ground sprinkler timed system. Not to be outdone, the front yard has been meticulously landscaped including new concrete stairs with lighting enhancing the curb appeal of this exceptional property.

1283 S Sycamore Ave, Los Angeles

Courtesy of , Ernesto Espinoza - CA DRE#

$1,585,000
4 Beds 4 Baths ACTIVE Status
ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE! Come experience and own this SUPER STYLISH MODERN HOME at Escena Golf Club that delivers high ceilings, an open floor plan, an ultra-private resort backyard, wide and long views of the surrounding mountains and ENDLESS fun inside and out! You will especially love privacy offered from this perimeter lot as well as the private gate that leads to the Escena Golf Club and Escena Grill! Light and bright Great Room with modern kitchen, dining and living spaces offers tall ceilings, mountain views, and easy access to the outside! The ONE-OF-A-KIND custom-designed adjacent bar is worthy of an award and the multiple sliding and folding glass doors that open to THREE OUTDOOR AREAS make this THE example of INDOOR/OUTDOOR LIVING! Perfectly designed for daytime fun as well as creatively crafted for evening enjoyment - this is the one to see inside and out as the natural light paired with the custom lighting create magic 24 x 7! Primary Suite features high ceilings, a spa-inspired bath with dual sinks, tiled shower w/ dual shower heads, and a walk-in closet built out for royalty. Junior Ensuite Two with private bath is at the opposite end of the hall. On the other side of the house is Guest Bedroom Three with direct patio access and adjacent bath as well as Bedroom Four with sink and refrigerator that is currently enjoyed as an Executive Office. Separate powder room plus large laundry room with sink. TRULY A WINNER!

4450 Moneo Ct, Palm Springs

Courtesy of , Brady Sandahl - CA DRE#

$1,950,000
3 Beds 3 Baths ACTIVE Status
Are you looking for a STREAMLINED contemporary where EVERYTHING is right? Where details matter and a passion for design is Dwell Magazine worthy? Bathed in natural light, this home atop the fairway at Escena Golf Club incorporates INSPIRED design inside and out! The approach to technology is just as exciting. Modern "pivot" front door is a delightful way to welcome guests to the big reveal - a living room with tall ceilings, clerestory windows, perfectly curated museum-quality lighting and sliding glass doors that open to endless views. Imported Himalayan porcelain tile with minimal grout lines that carry to outdoor living. Pebble-finished saline pool + spa with upgraded Pentair system (hybrid: half gas and half electric) and "swim-in-place" swim jet. Outdoor shower is a work of art, and the fire pit and built-in barbecue island are ready for season. Onto the chef's kitchen where the island's "panda white" marble and waterfall edge take center stage. High gloss cabinets + drawers with custom handles. Dual ovens + slow cook warming drawer. Quartz tile backsplash. Water systems: both soft-water and recirculating hot water. En suite primary enjoys a dramatic use of stone for its accent wall. LOVING the walk-through shower framed by a 14-foot tiled wall. En suite Guest Bedroom #2 features views the West and takes on the feel of a primary-sized suite. Guest Bedroom #3 is currently enjoyed as an office / workout area. Take note of the sensational built-in desk. Stylish finishes compliment the nearby bathroom. Motorized shades, built-in sound system, "soft close" cabinets and drawers throughout, plus Level 5 smooth drywall. Garage outfitted with built-in workbench, metal + wood wall shelving, and epoxy flooring. Upgraded lighting added to pathways, planting areas. French drain. Energy saving features include tankless water heater, artificial turf, low-E windows, dual zoned variable speed HVAC and owned SOLAR (35 panels). The Golf Club + Grill are icing on the cake.

1240 Celadon St, Palm Springs

Courtesy of , Brady Sandahl - CA DRE#

$2,795,000
2 Beds 2 Baths ACTIVE Status
One Of The Most prestigious addresses on the Wilshire Corridor. "The Grand" Explosive Views Views and more Views , City Views, Ocean Views, Getty Views, Holmby Hills Views... North/ South, East / West/ Has it all .This amazing completely done Cool Hip Modern/Spa/Zen vibe masterpiece features 2bd 2 bath, 1,945 Sq Ft ,Corner Unit , Rare "19th Fl with very open floor-plan with custom kitchen cabinets, stainless Bosch range, dishwasher, micro with stainless Fisher & Paykel refrigerator, Custom marble countertops & backsplash, center island with breakfast bar, custom Champagne Bubbles triple pendant lighting, recessed lighting & under-counter lighting, separate bar area with wine fridge, two large oversized balconies, one facing the City & Ocean and the other Facing Holmby Hills & Mountains overlooking the Getty , Large living room with custom marble book match fireplace, limestone floors , custom made stainless a/c vents throughout . Wonderful dining right off of the rear balcony with Holmby Hills Views, custom stratosphere lighting, second bath with custom metallic tiled walls, custom sink, custom mirror , Wonderful steam shower with porcelain slabs, sitting bench & frameless shower, Custom Solid doors throughout , High Ceilings, Great 2nd bed with hardwood floors , Custom Italian Designed Closet Doors and more wonderful views. Large Primary suite with smoked Mirror wall, Remote Window treatments, Explosive unobstructed City Views, hardwood floors, "TWO" nice size walk in closets , large balcony off primary , Spa style primary bath with dual custom sinks, oversized jacuzzi tub with body sprayer, with separate custom shower with large shower head and separate body sprayer. This is truly a one of a kind.. This is the absolute BEST corner location in the entire building... One floor below the top floor.. This rare unit is extremely unique because of the location as it is one of the very very few on Wilshire that does not have a building in front of you as the building across the street is only 11 stories. This is picture perfect.. If you have someone looking for an incredible Modern Unit completely updated, with all the goodies in the most prime location , there is only one choice.. This is a Full Service Building with 24 Hour Security , Concierge, Valet, Pool, Spa, Fitness Center, Conference Room, EV Chargers, and one of the lower HOA dues in the corridor . This unit also comes with 2 rare side by side end parking spots . Stepsnfrom Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, Dining, Shops, Theater, UCLA, Westwood Village and Century City Westfield Mall, Run , dont walk . This won't last

10445 Wilshire Blvd Unit 1905, Los Angeles

Courtesy of , Todd Marks - CA DRE#

$199,000
3 Beds 2 Baths ACTIVE Status
Welcome to this stunning three-bedroom, two-bathroom home located in the serene and quiet community of Sun Canyon Estates, nestled on the north end of Palm Springs. Situated on one of the premier lots in the community with no neighbors behind you, this property boasts a spacious backyard with breathtaking mountain views, providing a sense of tranquility and privacy. Step outside onto your patio and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether you choose to relax in the private hot tub, gather around the inviting fire pit, or simply enjoy the expansive views, this home offers the perfect space for outdoor living and entertaining. Inside, you'll find a light and bright atmosphere, complemented by the pride of ownership evident throughout. The property features a newer HVAC and water heater installed in 2021, ensuring comfort and efficiency. The newer SS washer and dryer, dishwasher and refrigerator add a touch of modern convenience to the well-appointed kitchen. With nearly 1,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this home offers functionality without any wasted areas. Additionally, an enclosed room with a window and its own a/c provides verstality for extra storage or the possibility of a hobby or workroom. Sun Canyon Estates offers an array or amenities, including a clubhouse with full kitchen, exercise room, biliards, lounge, gathering area, pool, spa and a playground for the little ones. The monthly space rent is very affordable, making this an attractive option for those seeking an exceptional lifestyle at a reasonable cost. This home can be sold furnished with one or two exclusions. Don't miss the opportunity to own your own slice of Palm Springs paradise for under 200K!

22840 Sterling Ave Unit 186, Palm Springs

Courtesy of , Christian Cocca - CA DRE#

$10,450,000
4 Beds 4 Baths ACTIVE Status
Nestled gracefully along the pristine shores of Malibu, this extraordinary architectural masterpiece beckons you to embark on a coastal living experience like no other. From the moment you set foot in this exquisite oceanfront residence, you are presented a life of opulence, serenity, and awe-inspiring panoramic vistas that seem to stretch endlessly. Approaching the entrance, you are guided through a gated, grassy motor court that leads the way. Once inside, the open floor plan effortlessly connects the various living spaces, making it a haven for those who relish the art of hosting and entertaining. The chef's kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line Viking appliances, seamlessly merges with the dining area and a spacious living room, which in turn opens onto an expansive outdoor balcony. Picture yourself hosting soirees where the rhythmic sounds of the waves orchestrate a soothing symphony for your guests. Abundant wall space throughout the home offers an ideal canvas to display your cherished art collections, adding a personal touch to an already enchanting setting. Elegance meets convenience as an elevator graciously serves all levels, while double-paned windows ensure that the home remains serenely quiet, preserving the harmony of your coastal retreat. The master suite, a true sanctuary, boasts a spa-like bathroom and a generously sized walk-in closet. Every floor in this home features a sprawling ocean-facing balcony, inviting you to bask in the golden hues of sunrise, savor the mesmerizing sunsets, and be caressed by the gentle sea breeze. For the car enthusiast, there's ample room to park up to five cars on the property. For the surfer, you'll have adjacent access to the infamous Topanga Point surf spot. And when you're ready to venture beyond this paradise, a short 10-minute drive north will transport you to the vibrant cityscape of Santa Monica, while a 10-minute journey south will lead you to the iconic Malibu Pier. This residence is more than just a home; it's a statement of refinement, a canvas for life's most exquisite moments, and an opportunity to own a piece of Malibu's captivating coastline. Don't let this chance slip away--make this beachfront oasis your very own.

18860 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu

Courtesy of , Robert Howell - CA DRE#

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