Andrew Wong.

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Straightforward answers to real estate questions

Start with the common questions below. For a property, contract, or decision specific to you, send Andrew the details and get a more useful answer.

Starting a home search

Should I talk to a lender or real estate agent first?

Either can begin the process, but financing context is important before relying on a price range. Andrew can help frame the search while a licensed lender evaluates loan-specific options.

Can I look at homes before I am preapproved?

You can research listings and areas, but many sellers expect financing evidence with an offer. Preapproval also helps identify a realistic payment range before touring seriously.

How many cities should I search at once?

Start with a manageable group connected by the same practical priorities. Comparing too many unrelated areas usually creates noise rather than better decisions.

Offers and due diligence

What makes an offer competitive besides price?

Financing strength, deposit, contingency structure, timing, possession, documentation, and certainty can all matter. The right combination depends on the property and seller priorities.

Should I waive an inspection contingency?

Waiving rights can create substantial risk. Review the available disclosures, property condition, competition, and contract consequences with your agent and appropriate professionals before changing protections.

What should I review in an HOA?

Review the budget, reserve study, insurance, rules, rental restrictions, meeting minutes, litigation, assessments, owner occupancy, and any information relevant to financing or intended use.

Preparing to sell

Should I renovate before selling?

Not automatically. First identify repairs that affect safety, financing, or buyer confidence, then compare the likely return and timeline of optional cosmetic work.

How is a listing price chosen?

A pricing recommendation considers recent comparable sales, current competition, property condition, location, market response, and the seller's timing—not one automated estimate.

What documents should I collect before listing?

Useful records may include permits, warranties, repair invoices, utility information, loan and solar details, surveys, and HOA documents. Required disclosures are completed through the transaction process.

Closing and moving

When is a California home purchase final?

A transaction generally closes when required funds and documents are completed and the deed records. Signing or sending funds alone does not necessarily mean recording has occurred.

How can I reduce wire-fraud risk?

Independently verify wire instructions using a trusted telephone number before sending funds. Do not rely solely on emailed changes or contact details supplied in a suspicious message.

When should I schedule movers?

Wait until the closing and possession terms are clear, and keep flexibility because funding or recording can change timing. Confirm possession before entering or moving belongings.