How long does it take to buy a home in San Diego?
On average, it takes 30 to 60 days to buy a home in San Diego once you’re under contract, but the full process from pre-approval to closing can take 2 to 4 months depending on your financing, market conditions, and how quickly you find the right home.
The Full Timeline of Buying a Home in San Diego
If you’re planning to buy a home in San Diego, it’s helpful to understand the timeline so you can set realistic expectations and avoid surprises. At Schwarz Real Estate Group, we guide buyers through this process every day—and while timelines vary, here’s what you can typically expect.
Step 1: Pre-Approval (1–5 Days)
Before house hunting, get pre-approved by a lender. This gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re serious. Most pre-approvals take just a few days, assuming you’ve gathered the necessary documents:
- Recent pay stubs or proof of income
- W-2s or tax returns
- Credit history
- Bank statements
Working with a responsive lender—especially one familiar with San Diego’s market—can streamline this step.
Step 2: House Hunting (1–8 Weeks+)
This part varies the most. In a competitive market like San Diego, it could take a few weeks—or longer—to find the right home. Some of our clients fall in love with the first showing. Others take more time, especially when inventory is tight or they’re looking in high-demand neighborhoods like North Park, 4S Ranch, or Carmel Valley.
At Schwarz Real Estate Group, we help clients clarify their must-haves and explore neighborhoods that align with their lifestyle, commute, and long-term goals.
Step 3: Making an Offer (1–3 Days)
Once you’ve found the right home, we’ll help you prepare a strong offer—often within 24 hours. In fast-moving markets, timing matters. We’ll review comparable sales, seller motivations, and how to make your offer stand out without overpaying.
Negotiations can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the seller’s response and whether there are multiple offers.
Step 4: Escrow and Underwriting (30–45 Days)
Once your offer is accepted, you’ll enter escrow. This is where most of the transaction work happens:
- Home inspection (Day 1–7): Identify issues that may need repair or negotiation.
- Appraisal (Day 7–20): Required by lenders to confirm the home’s value.
- Loan underwriting (through Day 30–40): Final lender review and conditions.
- Contingency removal (typically Day 17–21): Based on inspections, appraisal, and financing.
San Diego’s escrow process is regulated and involves third-party escrow companies that manage timelines, legal paperwork, and the transfer of funds.
Step 5: Closing (1–3 Days)
Once your loan is approved, you’ll sign closing documents and wire your down payment and closing costs. After funds are received and documents are recorded with the county, you’ll officially receive the keys to your new home!
What Can Delay the Timeline?
- Low inventory: Limited listings can prolong house hunting.
- Financing issues: Credit problems, missing documents, or lender delays.
- Appraisal gaps: If the home appraises below the offer price.
- Inspection surprises: Repairs or renegotiations after inspections.
- Title or legal issues: Rare, but can delay closing if unresolved.
Working with an experienced agent and organized lender can help you avoid most of these delays.
Tips to Stay on Track
- Get pre-approved early
- Be flexible in your home search
- Stay in close communication with your agent and lender
- Respond quickly to document requests or deadlines
Local Expertise Makes a Difference
Every real estate market has quirks, and San Diego is no different. Some neighborhoods move faster than others, and buyer competition can spike seasonally.
At Schwarz Real Estate Group, we stay ahead of market shifts, helping our clients stay competitive, calm, and confident. Whether you’re buying in downtown San Diego, Rancho Bernardo, or near the coast, we’ll walk you through every step.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does it take to buy a home in San Diego? With a trusted team by your side, you can be in your new home in as little as two months—or less. Preparation, flexibility, and local insight are key.
If you’re thinking about buying, reach out to Schwarz Real Estate Group. We’ll help you plan your timeline, get you connected with local lenders, and guide you from pre-approval to closing day.