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From Dream to Doorstep: Your First-Time Homebuyer Roadmap
Are you tired of renting and ready to build equity, but feel overwhelmed by where to start? You are not alone. In Episode 1 of the "From Dream to Doorstep" series, San Diego's "Dream Team"—Realtor Collette Jimenez and Mortgage Broker Cathy Sabater—cut through the noise to provide a simplified, step-by-step guide to buying your first home.

Here is the breakdown of the roadmap discussed in this episode, moving you from "thinking about it" to holding the keys.

Step 1: Financial Foundation
• Importance of checking credit score early.
• Reducing debt and saving for down payment/closing costs.
• Explaining loan pre-qualification vs. pre-approval.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Loan Program
• FHA, VA, Conventional, First-Time Buyer Programs (state/county grants).
• California-specific programs (e.g., CalHFA, down payment assistance).
• How the loan type impacts monthly payment and affordability.
Step 3: Building Your Dream Team
• Realtor, lender, home inspector, title/escrow.
• Why choosing the right agent makes the process smoother.
• The importance of communication and trust.
Step 4: House Hunting Strategy
• Narrowing down must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
• Understanding neighborhoods, schools, commute, lifestyle fit.
• Using technology but balancing with in-person showings.
Step 5: Making the Offer
• What goes into a strong offer (price, terms, contingencies).
• How competitive California markets affect strategy.
• Importance of earnest money deposit.
Step 6: The Escrow Process
• Home inspections and negotiating repairs.
• Appraisal and lender approval.
• Title search and escrow timeline.
Step 7: Closing & Move-In
Bonus Tips

Don’t miss our next video - Step 1 Financial Plan

👥 Hosted by Your San Diego Dream Team: Helping you go From Dream… To Doorstep

⭐Collette Jimenez | Realtor (DRE 01888050) Collette brings the strategy and negotiation skills to find you the perfect home. 📞 (619) 838-1696

⭐Cathy Sabater | Mortgage Broker & Proud Veteran (NMLS #373470) Cathy handles the "real numbers," ensuring your financing is secure and sustainable. 📞 (619) 846-2675

⏱️ Video Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
03:36 – The Process for First-Time Buyers
06:04 – Building the Financial Plan
07:04 – Choosing the Right Realtor
07:38 – The House Hunting Strategy
11:01 – Opening Escrow
12:12 – Understanding the Appraisal
16:32 – CRITICAL: No Major Purchases!

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🗓️ Schedule a Call with Cathy & Collette
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📞 Contact
Cathy Sabater | Mortgage Broker | NMLS 373470 | 619-846-2675
🔎 Licensed in CA • TX • FL • NV • GA |
Empire Home Loans NMLS 1839243
Equal Housing Lender