What Is the Home Buying Process in SF or Marin?
Buying a home in San Francisco or Marin County is both an exciting milestone and a strategic process. While the core steps of buying a home are consistent across California, the pace, competition, and expectations differ notably between these two markets. Whether you’re purchasing a Victorian in the Inner Sunset or a hillside home in Mill Valley, here’s what you can expect from start to close.
Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before touring homes, you’ll need a pre-approval letter from a lender. This shows sellers you’re financially qualified and helps you understand your budget.
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In San Francisco, where bidding wars are common, strong pre-approval (or proof of funds for cash buyers) is essential.
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In Marin, offers may include financing contingencies, but pre-approval still shows you’re serious.
Step 2: Find the Right Agent
Your agent should be experienced in local neighborhoods, competitive offer strategies, and off-market opportunities. The SF and Marin markets reward agility and local knowledge.
🔗 Explore questions to ask a real estate agent →
Step 3: Tour Homes Strategically
Open houses are the norm, and many properties sell within the first week.
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In SF, buyers often move fast and preview homes with inspection reports already in hand.
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In Marin, buyers may have slightly more time and homes may allow for inspections after offer acceptance.
Step 4: Make a Competitive Offer
Your agent will help you assess price, contingencies, disclosures, and seller expectations.
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In SF, offers may be non-contingent and above asking price.
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In Marin, you may have more room to negotiate—but well-priced homes still receive strong interest.
Step 5: Enter Escrow
Once your offer is accepted, escrow begins, typically a 21–30 day process. During this time, you’ll finalize your loan, conduct any inspections, and prepare to close.
Step 6: Final Walkthrough & Closing
You’ll do a final walkthrough to confirm the home’s condition, sign closing documents, wire funds, and receive your keys. In many cases, you’ll own the home a few days after you sign.
Local Tips to Succeed in the SF or Marin Market
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Read disclosure packets thoroughly before writing offers,especially in SF where contingencies may be waived.
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Understand offer deadlines and customs, which vary by neighborhood and price point.
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Lean on your agent’s local experience to evaluate pricing and strategy.
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Have backup properties in mind, especially in San Francisco, where competition is steep.
Final Thoughts
While the buying process in SF and Marin shares the same legal steps, the pace, pressure, and expectations differ. San Francisco often requires speed and precision; Marin allows a bit more breathing room, but both markets demand preparation and local insight.
💡 Have more questions about the buying journey?
Explore the full San Francisco & Marin Real Estate FAQ Hub →
Author: Oliver Burgelman
Oliver is a real estate broker with over 20 years of experience helping buyers and sellers in San Francisco and Marin County. Known for his deep local knowledge and candid guidance, he combines strategic marketing with hands-on support at every step of the transaction.
