Buying a Home in California Without an Agent
Skip the buyer's agent and save $23,550 on a median California home ($785,000).
A step-by-step guide for California buyers who want to keep the commission.
California Closing Requirements
Attorney Required at Closing
No — Title Company Can Close
Buyer Agent Required by Law
No — Agent Is Optional
Standard Inspection Period
17 Days
Potential Savings
$23,550 at median price
Escrow companies handle closings. No attorney or buyer agent required by law.
Transfer Tax
Seller typically pays county transfer tax ($1.10 per $1,000). Some cities (SF, LA, Oakland) have additional city transfer taxes — confirm before closing.
8 Steps to Buy Without an Agent in California
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before searching for homes, get a pre-approval letter from a lender. This tells sellers how much you can borrow and shows you're a serious buyer. Compare rates from multiple lenders — even a 0.25% rate difference on a $785,000 California home saves thousands over the loan term.
Search for Homes
Use Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and local MLS portals to find listings in California. Set up alerts for your target criteria. You can also drive neighborhoods and look for FSBO signs — those sellers have no listing agent and may be open to direct offers.
Research Comparable Sales
Before making an offer, research what similar homes have sold for in the last 90 days. Zillow, Redfin, and California county tax records provide recent sale prices to help you make a fair offer.
Schedule a Showing
Contact the seller's listing agent directly to schedule a showing. The listing agent represents the seller but is legally obligated to treat you fairly. You don't need your own agent to tour homes in California.
Write and Submit Your Offer
Prepare a written offer including purchase price, contingencies (inspection, financing, appraisal), closing date, and earnest money. In California, the inspection contingency window is typically 17 days — make sure it's in your offer.
Complete Inspections
You have 17 days to complete inspections in California. Hire a licensed home inspector to evaluate the property. California's standard CAR contract gives you 17 days for inspections and review of disclosures. The Natural Hazard Disclosure report (earthquake, wildfire, flood zones) is delivered early — read it carefully before removing contingencies.
Secure Final Mortgage Approval
Work with your lender to complete underwriting, appraisal, and final approval. Respond quickly to any document requests and avoid major purchases or new credit during this period.
Close on Your Home
A title company handles your California closing — reviewing title, preparing the deed, and coordinating the transfer of funds. Review and sign all closing documents, pay your down payment and closing costs, and receive the keys.
Resources for California Buyers
Partner services to help you buy without a buyer's agent.