Browse Homes for Sale in San Jose, Morgan Hill, Gilroy & Hollister

A smart starting point is your comfortable monthly payment, not just the purchase price.  Online calculators help you estimate.  Though a lender conversation and pre-approval is necessary.  That is how you get a clearer and personalized range. 

Keep in mind that your real monthly cost is not just the mortgage payment.  Experts generally recommend that your total monthly mortgage payment (including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance) should not exceed 25% to 28% of your gross monthly income.  7 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

The very first step is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This helps you understand exactly how much you can afford.  Most importantly it signals to sellers that you are a serious qualified buyer.  It positions your purchase offer to be at least considered.

The traditional standard is 20% down payment.  First-time buyers are informed by lenders of lower down payment terms and incentives available during the pre-approval process.  Special programs like VA and USDA loans may even offer lower down payment options for qualifying individuals.

Most buyers follow this sequence:

Pre-Approval → Home Search → Submit Offer → Inspections & Disclosures→ Lender Appraisal and Underwriting → Close Escrow

During underwriting, your lender verifies documents and financial data.  So it’s smart to avoid big credit changes, major purchases or incurring debts.  I’ll help you coordinate.  From pre-approval, to timelines with inspections, disclosures, and contract deadlines.  So you stay informed and on the right path for a smooth closing.

Yes. As per California law AB 2992 (effective Jan 1, 2025) and NAR settlement rules.  Buyers must sign a written representation agreement before touring any property with an agent.  This agreement must detail the services provided and the specific compensation the agent will receive.

In California, you are entitled to several key disclosures, including but not limited to:

• Agency Relationship Disclosure: Explains whether the agent represents you, the seller, or both (Dual Agency).

• Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS): The seller’s report on the property's physical condition.

• 2026 Updates: Effective January 1, 2026, sellers must disclose tobacco/nicotine residue.  Also, agents must disclose the use of AI-generated or digitally altered photos in listings.

Yes, this is known as Dual Agency and legal in California.  However, the agent must provide a written disclosure.  Also, obtain consent from both parties.  Dual agents have a limited fiduciary duty.  They cannot disclose confidential information or pricing motivations to the other party without permission. 

Dual agency by design, is a difficult balancing act.  For true fiduciary protection, buyers and sellers should have their own independent agents to protect their respective interests.

Much like a legal case, a real estate deal works best when each side has its own advocate. Separate representation ensures that no one’s best interests are compromised for the sake of a closing.

Agent commissions are fully negotiable and not set by law.  Compensation details are no longer displayed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Your buyer agent may be paid by:

• Seller Concessions: You can request that the seller pay your agent's fee as part of your purchase offer.

• Direct Payment: You may pay your agent directly as outlined in your representation agreement.

• Listing Broker: The seller elects to offer a compensation concession to the buyer's agent outside of the MLS.