Answers by Steve Meyers

Hi Misha, make sure you are working with a mortgage broker vs a big bank first and foremost. Also see what incentives they are offering you rocket mortgage and a few of the bigger names offer credits towards your closing costs and so forth. Best thing to do is talk to 3 or 4 lenders and see who might be willing to give you a credit towards closing costs, hope that helps

I agree with Michelle. Especially if you are concerned with the purchase price of what you are paying for the property. Your agent can always run sold comps but an appraiser is going to give you a more accurate valuation.

Have your agent see if the sellers are accepting buyer letters this is something that is an option on the residential listing agreement if the seller will entertain these or not. Not all listings/listing agents/sellers will accept these with offers and it does pose a concern to fair housing law and discrimination as David mentioned. That being said if you are going to submit one I would talk about how much you loved their home and certain characteristics and features about it that you liked. I would talk about why you want to live in that particular area too. If you are a first time buyer that might be something to add as well. CA is a very competitive market everywhere but be sure to consult with your agent about your buyer letter. They should be able to help point you in the right direction :)

Yes, you can make a backup offer on the home should the buyer who has it currently under contract decides to back out