Esther Davis | Mindful Realtor, North County San Diego
Find the Right Property
Buying a Home in North County San Diego
Buying a home is a major milestone—and one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make.
While every home purchase is unique, there’s a universal step-by-step process that applies to almost every transaction. Typical steps include:
- Assess finances and get mortgage pre-approval
- Define home needs and priorities
- Begin property search
- Narrow down options and tour homes
- Make offer and negotiate terms
- Conduct a home inspection and due diligence
- Finalize mortgage, appraisal, and title
- Close and move into your new home!
We’ll connect you with great loan options and help you find the right home at the best value. While the process can feel overwhelming, the right guidance makes it clear and manageable.
We position you for success by anticipating issues, avoiding pitfalls, and using proven strategies to keep the transaction moving smoothly to the finish line.
We’ll find the right home—even where others aren’t looking.
Using online tools, market insight, and tried-and-true methods, we uncover homes both on and off the market—including exclusive listings, for sale by owners, new construction, and unlisted opportunities.
We reach out directly in your target neighborhoods through door knocking, letters, and calls, talk to homeowners who want to sell but not ready to list, and tap into Coldwell Banker’s extensive network.
We’ll focus on your must-haves, stay flexible on trade-offs, and follow a proven process so you’re ready to act when the right home comes along.
Buyer Agent Compensation
Under 2024 MLS rules, buyers are now responsible for their agent’s fees. While not required, many sellers may cover this as part of the offer—or buyers can pay their agent directly at closing.
Buyer Representation Agreements Are Required
A signed agreement is required before touring properties and must include:
- Services provided
- Fee structure (flat fee, hourly rate, or % of sale)
- Duration (per property, per day, or up to 90 days).
- Clear terms; cannot be open ended or exceed agreed amount
Buyers can still attend open houses without a signed agreement.
NEW MLS Rules:
What Buyers & Sellers Need To Know
Find Down Payment Help
The #1 reason buyers delaying buying a home is saving for a down payment. But you may be eligible for down payment help—even if you’re not a first-time buyer.
There are thousands of down payment assistance programs (DPA) available nationwide to help you buy sooner, including:
- HUD-funded initiatives
- State, city, and county housing authority programs
- Nonprofits and community land trusts
- Federal home loan bank programs.
Just enter a property address and answer a few quick questions . You’ll receive a personalized list of available programs matched to your eligibility—based on location, income, and property details.
Helping Buyers Succeed
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or re-entering the market, we empower you with the tools and knowledge to turn “someday” into “sold.”