Buying a home in California's competitive market requires a blend of rigorous financial preparation and navigation of state-specific disclosures. To successfully purchase a home as of early 2026, you generally need the following: 1. Financial Readiness
: Lenders typically look for a minimum score of 620 for conventional loans, though 580 may be acceptable for FHA loans with a 3.5% down payment. Higher scores often secure better interest rates. what do i need to buy a house in ca
Lenders will require a "paper trail" to verify your financial capacity: How to buy a house in California Buying a home in California's competitive market requires
: Beyond the down payment, you should have enough to cover 2% to 5% of the purchase price for closing costs . 2. Required Documentation Higher scores often secure better interest rates
: While 20% is the standard to avoid mortgage insurance, many buyers use programs requiring as little as 3% to 3.5% .