HomeAdviceBuyingWhat are the requirements to buy a house in California?
Go Back

What are the requirements to buy a house in California?

What are the requirements to buy a house in California? What do I need to prepare to buy a house in California?

Asked by Jan | South Sioux City, NE| 01-29-2024| 1,188 views|Buying|Updated 2 years ago

Answers (3)

Sort by:
Keith Jean Pierre

REMAX First Realty · East Brunswick, NJ

(151 reviews)
Jan, I assume you are speaking about mortgage qualifications. The lowest credit score needed to buy a house is typically 500 for an FHA loan with a 10% down payment. For conventional loans, a minimum of 620 is generally required. While some government-backed loans have very low requirements, most lenders impose their own higher minimums, often requiring at least 580 to 620. Additionally, income requirements exist. I would suggest you speak with a lending professional as they can discuss your specific situation. Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Real Estate Operations in ALL 50 States
View Profile
05-09-2026 (19 hours ago)··
Josephine & Raj Sharma

Legacy Homes Realty · Lake Elsinore, CA

(152 reviews)
To buy a home in California, you typically need a steady income, good credit (usually 620+ for most loans), a down payment (anywhere from 3% to 20% depending on the loan), funds for closing costs, and documentation like tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements, along with getting pre-approved by a lender to show you can qualify for a mortgage.
View Profile
03-21-2026 (1 month ago)··
Richard Van OverNovice1 Answer
Richard Van Over

EXP Realty · Lodi, CA

(43 reviews)
Requirements depends on how you are buying the home. If you are paying cash, you need to show proof that you have the money for the purchase. If you are getting a loan, the loan is going off income and yor debt ratio, credit score, proof of a job.
View Profile
02-05-2024 (2 years ago)··
Find Agent CTA

Are you ready to find a top agent near you?

Browse profiles of the highest ranked agents in your area and find one that meets your specific needs.

Related Questions

Looking for: HUD registered broker to bid on a home in NY. Other than HUD.

Asked by Elizabeth A. Ross | 11 views | Buying | 05-07-2026 | Updated 2 days ago

Agent want me to pay for professional cleaning before photos test test

Asked by Veronica test | Phoenix, AZ | 21 views | Buying | 05-04-2026 | Updated 3 days ago

If my wife bought a piece of land in Colorado and we are getting a divorce, can I purchase it

Asked by Sean C Studer | Howard, CO | 8 views | Buying | 05-06-2026 | Updated 3 days ago

What is the asking price for property in Brownsville Mn on the river?

Asked by Lyn kutz | 11 views | Buying | 05-03-2026 | Updated 6 days ago

Where can I find an agent to help me relocate to a 55+ mobile home community in Florida

Asked by Laura Clark | Vero Beach, FL | 17 views | Buying | 05-02-2026 | Updated 1 week ago