California Earnest Money: Deposit Amounts, Timing & Refund Risks

By Vikas Shah | CA DRE #02235333 | 408-650-3463Updated September 29, 2026 Earnest money is the deposit a buyer commits under a home purchase agreement to demonstrate commitment to the transaction. When the purchase closes, it is credited toward the buyer's funds due; it is not an extra charge on top

California Contingencies: Appraisal Gaps, Deadlines & Decisions

By Vikas Shah | CA DRE #02235333 | 408-650-3463Updated September 29, 2026 California real estate contingencies are conditions in a purchase agreement that address defined uncertainties before a buyer proceeds. A loan contingency concerns financing, an appraisal contingency concerns value, and an ins

Bay Area Down Payments: Monthly Costs, Loan Limits & Cash Left

You do not automatically need 20% down to buy a Bay Area home, but the minimum available to you depends on the loan program, loan amount, property and your qualifications. Some eligible conventional borrowers can use low-down-payment programs; that does not mean a 3% option is available for every Ba

Bay Area Mortgage Preapproval: Income, Payments & Cash Needed

Get mortgage preapproval before you start making Bay Area offers, and ask the lender to show three numbers: the loan amount supported by your documented income, the full monthly housing payment and the cash left after closing. The approval ceiling alone cannot tell you whether a particular condo, to