Buying a Home? Read This First.
Whether you're buying your first home or your fifth, the California real estate market can feel fast-paced and overwhelming. But with the right guidance, you can protect your investment, avoid delays, and make smart, confident decisions. Here are five insider tips from escrow pros to help you navigate your next real estate transaction like a seasoned buyer.
1. Get Pre-Approved, Not Just Pre-Qualified
Before you start house hunting, make sure you’re pre-approved by a lender—not just pre-qualified. Pre-approval means the bank has verified your income, credit, and financials and is ready to lend. Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously, and it can give you a competitive edge in multiple-offer situations.
2. Don’t Skip the Home Inspection
Even in a competitive market, never waive your home inspection just to get your offer accepted. A licensed inspector can uncover hidden issues like mold, foundation problems, or outdated wiring. These can become costly repairs—and in some cases, deal-breakers.
Escrow professionals use the inspection period to ensure all terms are met before the deal moves forward.
3. Understand the Escrow Process
Escrow is more than just “paperwork.” It’s the secure, neutral stage that holds your deposit, ensures all conditions are met, and protects both the buyer and seller.
At LCD Capital Escrow, we guide buyers step by step—from deposit to closing. We make sure every document is complete, deadlines are met, and funds are disbursed properly.
4. Watch for Contingencies
Most real estate contracts come with contingencies—conditions that must be satisfied before the sale is final. These can include loan approval, home appraisal, and the home inspection. If one of these fails, you may have the right to back out and get your deposit refunded.
Your escrow officer tracks these contingencies to protect your interests.
5. Ask Questions—Lots of Them
There’s no such thing as a dumb question in real estate. Whether you're unsure about paperwork, payment timelines, or what happens next, ask your escrow officer, agent, or lender. At LCD Capital Escrow, we’re known for fast, transparent communication—because informed clients close with confidence.
Final Thoughts
The California real estate market moves fast, but with the right support and knowledge, you don’t have to feel lost. Trust your team, ask questions, and take it step by step. When in doubt, lean on professionals who do this every day.
Ready to open escrow? Reach out to LCD Capital Escrow—we’re here to make the process smooth, secure, and stress-free.