Lawbrarian

First-Time Home Buyer Legal Checklist for California

By Lawbrarian Editorial Team
Published
Summary
Buying your first home in California? This legal checklist covers the essential steps and California-specific requirements.

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The information provided on Lawbrarian is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Every legal situation is unique, and the content on this site should not be relied upon as legal counsel. If you need legal advice specific to your circumstances, please consult with a licensed attorney. You can connect with one of our attorneys through the "Talk to a Lawyer" feature available on every page.

Before Making an Offer

Get pre-approved: Secure mortgage pre-approval so you know your budget. California's high home prices make this step especially important to set realistic expectations.

Hire a real estate attorney: While not legally required in California (unlike some states), having an attorney review your purchase agreement can protect you from costly mistakes.

California-Specific Disclosures

California has some of the most extensive disclosure requirements in the nation. Sellers must provide:

Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS): Required for most residential sales, detailing the property's condition and any known defects.

Natural Hazard Disclosure: Reports on whether the property is in a flood zone, fire hazard zone, earthquake fault zone, or other natural hazard area.

Mello-Roos and Special Tax Disclosures: Information about any special district taxes that may apply to the property.

The Escrow Process

California uses an escrow process for real estate transactions. A neutral third party holds funds and documents until all conditions of the sale are met. The typical escrow period is 30-45 days.

Title Insurance

Both lender's and owner's title insurance are standard in California transactions. Title insurance protects against claims or liens against the property that may not appear in public records.

Closing Costs

Expect closing costs of 2-5% of the purchase price. In California, buyers typically pay for their own title insurance policy, loan-related fees, and prorated property taxes. Some costs are negotiable between buyer and seller.