Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and the process can feel overwhelming from the outside. Broken into steps, though, it’s very manageable. Here’s how a typical Temecula Valley purchase unfolds in 2026.
Step 1: Get pre-approved
Before you tour homes, get pre-approved. This means I review your income, credit, and savings and confirm what you can comfortably borrow. A pre-approval letter also tells sellers you’re a serious, credible buyer — which matters in a competitive market.
Step 2: Find your home and make an offer
With your budget set, you and your real estate agent shop for homes and submit an offer. Your pre-approval strengthens that offer. Once the seller accepts, you’re “in escrow.”
Step 3: Loan processing and appraisal
Now the loan moves forward. I collect your documentation, order the appraisal to confirm the home’s value, and submit everything to underwriting. Staying responsive — sending requested documents quickly — keeps things on schedule.
Step 4: Underwriting and approval
An underwriter reviews the full file and issues your approval, sometimes with a few final conditions to clear. I manage this closely so surprises are rare.
Step 5: Closing and keys
You’ll do a final walkthrough, sign your closing documents, and your loan funds. Then the home is officially yours. For most Temecula buyers, the whole journey takes roughly 30–45 days from accepted offer to keys.
A few tips along the way
Until you close, avoid opening new credit, making large unexplained deposits, or changing jobs without telling me — each can affect your approval. When in doubt, ask first; that’s what I’m here for.
Ready to start? Get pre-approved with Tom Santos at (951) 312-6234 or apply online. Tom Santos, NMLS #332212 · Arbor Financial Group. All loans subject to credit approval; rates and guidelines subject to change; not a commitment to lend.
