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How To Buy A House

PASADENA REAL ESTATE GUIDE

HOME BUYER TIPS AND ADVICE

Are you ready to buy a house? You have come to the right place.  Below, you will find links to articles that we hope will be useful to you.  Just click on the corresponding link and you will be taken directly to the article. Feel free to browse through these home buying articles. The most important thing for you to know is that you need to be represented and being a home buyer in Pasadena or surrounding neighborhoods is great – why?  Because you get real estate agent representation for free! That should put a smile on your face 🙂

When you are ready to begin your home search and would like to schedule a personalized home buying consultation, give us a call at (626) 629-8439.  We look forward to being of assistance to you.

How do you calculate your home buying affordability? Here’s great advice from our lender of choice – Calculating Your Home Affordability.

Tips for getting more home for your money – stretch that $. Read 5 tips for getting more home for your $.

Every industry, real estate included, has its own “rules of the game”. It is important to understand the proper etiquette when you are shopping for a home in Pasadena.

An absolutely “must read” when buying a home – 9 Stupid Things Buyers do to Mess Up their Home Purchase.

UNDERSTANDING THE HOME BUYING PROCESS

Okay, so you have an accepted offer, your down payment is lined up… what will you be paying in closing costs? Read what kind of home closing costs should I expect during escrow?

Did you know that there are two types of closing costs when purchasing a home: Understand the difference between recurring and non-recurring closing costs.

What are home purchase contingencies? And, can the escrow be cancelled by a seller? Yes… read how at Pasadena home sale escrow can be cancelled by a seller.

When you buy a home in Pasadena, it’s usual and customary to put a 3% earnest money deposit. Make sure that you understand how to protect that hard earned money by reading the fastest way to lose your earnest money deposit.

Now that you found your home, what kind of inspections should you be ordering? A physical home inspection and sewer line inspection at a minimum!

One of the things that home buyers need to decide on while they are in escrow is how to hold title. Take a look at Property Title Insurance – What is it for and what are your options?

Here are some of the recent homes for sale around Pasadena California:

Learning about homes for sale educates you on the state of the current real estate market.

  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:58:00 +0000: $4,990,000 :: 1480 Virginia Rd, San Marino CA, 91108 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    4 beds, 3 baths
    Home size: 3,341 sq ft
    Lot Size: 59,573 sq ft
    Added: 10/21/24, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: AR24214322
    Community: 655 - San Marino
    The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/11/2025 by 6%
    Status: Active


    Stunning Architectural Gem in San Marino. In a serene setting near Lacy Park , the private entry home offers a harmonious blend of modern elegance and timeless charm, further by significant recent upgrades, including freshly painted exterior and interior walls. Live near World-Class Culture: The Huntington Library's art, and gardens are just moment away. Step inside to find brand new high-end Wi-Fi enabled appliances, double convection oven, Bosch induction cooktop, dishwasher known for its quiet operation, making it popular choice for open-concept living. A spacious laundry room includes a brand new washer and dryer, and you can relax in brand new fully remodeled bathrooms featuring elegant marble countertops. Even the practical details shine , with a brand- new garage door enhancing curb appeal and a versatile bonus room attached to the garage perfect for a home gym or private office. Enjoy the convenience of nearby Lacy Park while basking in the tranquility of your private retreat set on a generous 59,574 squares foot lot. This exceptional property offers the perfect combination of space, style and location, with ample room on the lot allowing for potential addition of swimming pool or an ADU, further enhancing its value and versatility.

    Listed with Chu Feng Chu | 626-922-5056, Pinnacle Real Estate Group


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 19:58:00 +0000: $1,399,000 :: 3690 Alder Lane, Pasadena CA, 91107 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    4 beds, 2 baths
    Home size: 1,890 sq ft
    Lot Size: 7,432 sq ft
    Added: 05/20/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: GD25112210
    Community: 646 - Pasadena (NE)
    The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/11/2025 by 7%
    Status: Active


    Welcome to 3690 Alder Lane, located on one of the most desirable streets in Upper Hastings Ranch, Pasadena. This stunning single-level mid-century modern home is perched atop the hill, offering unobstructed views of Downtown LA and city lights on one side, and majestic mountain views on the other. Originally built in 1955 and completely remodeled, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,890 square feet of bright, airy living space. Upon entering, you're greeted by abundant natural light, an open floor plan, and oversized bifold doors that seamlessly blend the indoors with the beauty of the outdoors.The modernized kitchen features sleek countertops, stainless steel appliances, and flows effortlessly into the dining area"”perfect for easy entertaining. Each bathroom has been remodeled to perfection, showcasing thoughtful design and high-end finishes. The newly landscaped front and back yards further elevate the home's curb appeal, offering tranquil spaces to relax and enjoy the views. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a beautifully reimagined home in one of Pasadena's most sought-after neighborhoods.

    Listed with Ida Altounian | 818-913-8556, Engel & Volkers La Canada


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 16:09:00 +0000: $3,499,000 :: 3505 E California Boulevard, Pasadena CA, 91107 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    6 beds, 5.75 baths
    Home size: 5,459 sq ft
    Lot Size: 62,060 sq ft
    Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: P1-23179
    Community: 648 - Pasadena (SE)
    Status: Active


    Set on a remarkable 1.42-acre corner lot in the heart of East Pasadena's coveted Chapman Woods, this expansive estate blends classic character with endless potential. On the market for the first time in over 50 years, the home offers over 5,400 sq ft of flexible living space, featuring 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms across a sprawling, multi-wing layout--ideal for customization, multi-generational living, or inspired renovation. A gated circular driveway leads to a traditional tiled entry, opening to a formal dining room with picture windows and built-in display cabinetry. French doors connect to the generous family room, featuring parquet floors, tray ceilings, and a wall of glass doors that reveal the stunning backyard, complete with a gated pool, spa, pergola-covered patio, mature fruit trees, winding garden paths, and a full-size sport court. The formal living room is equally refined with parquet flooring, a gas fireplace, and oversized windows overlooking the front lawn. The bright kitchen includes tile countertops, a 4-burner gas cooktop, double ovens, a dishwasher, a side-by-side laundry area, and a cozy breakfast nook. A sliding glass door offers easy access to the outdoor entertaining area. The west wing offers flexibility for a guest suite, office, or creative studio with its own entrance. Here, you'll find a mudroom or workspace, a 3/4 bath, and an ensuite bedroom with access to the gated drive, carport, detached 2-car garage, and a bonus sauna room with a shower. On the east side, a split hallway leads to five additional bedrooms and four bathrooms. One corridor includes a spacious bedroom, a hall bath with tub/shower combo, and the impressive primary suite. The suite features corner windows, garden views, and a unique U-shaped walk-in closet with a connecting dual bathroom layout--two vanities, two toilets, a shared pass-through shower, soaking tub, and a built-in vanity space. The southeast hallway offers two more bedrooms with mirrored closets and a full bath, plus a sun-filled sixth bedroom with a cedar-lined walk-in closet and views of the front lawn. The backyard is a true highlight--an entertainer's dream with pool, spa, grassy play areas, patio spaces, and a private sport court. Offering tranquility, space, and timeless appeal in one of Pasadena's most desirable neighborhoods, this Chapman Woods estate invites you to reimagine its next chapter.

    Listed with Jason Berns CalDRE: E | 626-826-4544, Keller Williams Realty


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000: $1,299,500 :: 57 S Grand Oaks Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91107 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    3 beds, 2 baths
    Home size: 2,000 sq ft
    Lot Size: 8,495 sq ft
    Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: OC25156084
    Community: 648 - Pasadena (SE)
    Status: Active


    Beautifully renovated private cottage located in the heart of Pasadena. Welcome to the charm of the mid 1940's with all the modern features and upgrades of today. This property has been given the utmost care and attention to detail with each and every renovation. From the timeless kitchen and ability to host and entertain to the elegant bathrooms. Bring your most discerning buyer. If your looking for value in todays market this is it. Located near shopping and easy freeway access to the 210.

    Listed with Jason Nagy CalDRE: S | 626-244-5000, Coldwell Banker Realty


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 15:38:00 +0000: $820,000 :: 1960 Olive Way, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    2 beds, 1 bath
    Home size: 862 sq ft
    Lot Size: 3,328 sq ft
    Added: 05/04/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: AR25098988
    Community: 646 - Pasadena (NE)
    The price of this listing was last reduced on 7/11/2025 by 6%
    Status: Active


    Price reduction. This charming 2 bedroom home, built in 1927, has so much character such as floor to ceiling fireplace, custom archways, open beamed ceiling and a built in niche in the dining area. Original hardwood floors in the living room, dining room and both bedrooms. The kitchen and indoor laundry room have new laminate flooring. In the backyard, you will find serenity with the 2 built in KOI ponds. The KOI are included. Come see this home today and add your personal touches! Located in the Northeast Pasadena area.

    Listed with Irene Truong | 626-321-7468, Socal Platinum Properties


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 15:07:00 +0000: $1,699,000 :: 2623 Fairgreen Avenue, Arcadia CA, 91006 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    3 beds, 2.75 baths
    Home size: 2,308 sq ft
    Lot Size: 11,901 sq ft
    Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: P1-23172
    Community: 605 - Arcadia
    Status: Active


    This beautifully upgraded home, featuring a gourmet kitchen, a resort-style backyard & designer touches throughout, is beckoning. Located on a beautifully landscaped lot with a lush green lawn & a paver walkway leading to a custom front door, this meticulously maintained home offers the perfect blend of classic charm & modern upgrades. Inside, sunlight streams through expansive front picture windows, illuminating hardwood floors & highlighting the home's warm & welcoming character. The formal living room is a showstoppera'bathed in natural light, it features recessed lighting, crown molding & a newer gas fireplace with an electric start & an updated chimney. The picture windows showcase the beautifully landscaped front yard, creating a sense of spaciousness & serenity throughout the day. The formal dining room offers its own large bay window, chair rail molding & elegant ambiance, ideal for intimate dinners or festive gatherings. The chef's kitchen is truly a standout with quartz countertops, tile flooring & a full suite of high-end appliances: a Miele gas cooktop with built-in deep fryer & range hood, Bosch built-in espresso maker, dishwasher, double-oven with warming drawer, under-counter microwave & a stainless steel dual sink beneath another sunny bay window. A large kitchen island provides counter seating next to a side-by-side laundry space. The kitchen opens to the spacious family room, with French doors leading to an entertainer's dream backyard. The pergola-covered patio includes space for an outdoor TV, while a gated pool area, a water feature with a babbling brook & a grassy lawn with mature apple & guava trees provide peaceful & private enjoyment. The expansive primary suite features a walk-in closet with built-in shelving & a spa-like ensuite with a dual-sink vanity, jetted soaking tub & oversized shower with dual showerheadsa'including a rain shower. 2 additional bedrooms, both well-sized with ceiling fans & ample closets, share a hallway bathroom with a separate tiled tub & shower & a floating single-sink vanity. Additional amenities include a finished detached two-car garage with epoxy flooring & built-in storage, a custom paver driveway wired for EV charging, a whole-house natural gas Generac generator, surveillance cameras & a home security system. This home truly delivers space, luxury & function in one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods. This home is ready for its new owners to experience modern living & effortless entertaini

    Listed with Jason Berns | 626-826-4544, Keller Williams Realty


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 15:07:00 +0000: $3,080,000 :: 134 E Las Flores Ave Ave, Arcadia CA, 91006 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    5 beds, 5.5 baths
    Home size: 5,300 sq ft
    Lot Size: 15,874 sq ft
    Added: 07/07/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: OC25153476
    Community: 605 - Arcadia
    Status: Active


    Step into timeless elegance with this stunning custom-built estate, nestled in a peaceful and highly desirable neighborhood of South Arcadia. Beyond the beautifully landscaped front yard and private electric gate, a grand 20-foot-high foyer welcomes you with a dazzling chandelier and an elegant staircase"”setting the tone for the sophistication that flows throughout the home. The thoughtfully designed floor plan offers both luxury and functionality. On the main level, you'll find a formal living room, a cozy family room with a built-in wet bar perfect for entertaining, a refined formal dining room, and a private office ideal for working from home. The main kitchen is bright and well-organized, seamlessly connected to a functional wok kitchen"”designed to meet the needs of both daily cooking and special occasions. A private guest suite with its own full bath is conveniently located on the first floor, along with a stylish powder room and a spacious laundry room. Every detail has been designed with comfort and practicality in mind. Upstairs, you'll discover four generously sized ensuite bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite. Each room offers ample space, natural light, and privacy, making it ideal for multi-generational living. The home's square, well-balanced layout enhances its sense of space and flow. The backyard faces south, inviting warm sunlight throughout the day"”ideal for outdoor entertaining or peaceful relaxation. The oversized three-car garage provides abundant storage and parking, while the secure front gate offers both privacy and peace of mind. Located within the award-winning Arcadia Unified School District, and just minutes from top-tier dining, shopping, and amenities, this exceptional residence is ready for you to move in and enjoy the very best of Arcadia living.

    Listed with Ting Wang CalDRE: E | 949-267-3149, Keller Williams Realty Irvine


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:42:00 +0000: $1,900,000 :: 1720 Rubio Drive, San Marino CA, 91108 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    3 beds, 2 baths
    Home size: 1,792 sq ft
    Lot Size: 9,575 sq ft
    Added: 07/10/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: OC25155348
    Community: 655 - San Marino
    Status: Active


    CHARMING SINGLE-STORY SAN MARINO HOME. . . TRADITIONAL HOME WITH MODERN UPDATES: Large windows and sliding doors provide light throughout home, upgraded double pane windows keeps home cool, original tile bathroom and hardware, wood floor throughout living areas, pool for entertaining, professionally landscaped yard, mature hedges that provide both beauty and privacy . . . CONVENIENT: Sensible layout, no interior steps, central ac and heating, large front, back and side yard with space for patio furniture, gardening, entertainment . . . PHENOMENAL LOCATION: walking distance to San Marino High School, 5 minutes driving to Huntington Library and Gardens, Lacy Park, Valentine Elementary & Huntington Middle Schools, San Marino Public Library.

    Listed with Steven Shiah | 626-205-8843, C.B. Investment & Funding Grp


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:17:00 +0000: $1,298,000 :: 1023 Don Pablo Drive, Arcadia CA, 91006 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    3 beds, 2 baths
    Home size: 2,459 sq ft
    Lot Size: 12,311 sq ft
    Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: AR25153876
    Community: 605 - Arcadia
    Status: Active


    This Wonderful One-Level family home with Great curb appeal located on a Cul-de-sac is waiting for your Special Cosmetic Touches. Some of the large ticket items have already been upgraded a few years back including the Roof, Central Air and Heat, the flooring in the Family Room and Hallway, and the resurfacing of the Pool. In addition to the 3 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms there is also a large Living Room/Dining Room combo, a Family Room and a large Game Room. The Living Room has a Gas Fireplace, Plantation Style Shutters and a Beautiful View of the Foothills. The Backyard is Large and boasts a Pool and Spa, Barbecue area, a Covered Patio, a nice lawn area and lots of mature trees. This home also belongs to the Award Winning Arcadia School District. Don't miss out on this Great Opportunity.

    Listed with Pamela Barbato | 626-862-4476, Century 21 Village Realty


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


  • Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:55:00 +0000: $899,950 :: 1426 Sunset Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91103 - Luxury Homes around Pasadena
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    2 beds, 1 bath
    Home size: 963 sq ft
    Lot Size: 4,383 sq ft
    Added: 07/11/25, Last Updated: 07/11/25
    Property Type: Single Family
    MLS Number: AR25155945
    Community: 645 - Pasadena (NW)
    Status: Active


    Step into this delightful Craftsman bungalow, where classic charm meets modern comfort. The spacious living room welcomes you with a Batchelder fireplace, setting a cozy ambiance. The open-concept kitchen features a stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator, along with convenient washer/dryer hookups and a dedicated dining area. The primary bedroom offers a peaceful retreat with ample closet space, while the bathroom exudes vintage charm with its classic clawfoot tub and dual-sink vanity. A second bedroom is located at the front of the house. Throughout the home, you'll find engineered wood flooring and enjoy year-round comfort with central air and heat. The entire interior and exterior have been freshly painted, ensuring a move-in-ready experience. Outside, the property boasts a deck, perfect for outdoor dining and lounging. A grassy area offers ample space for outdoor activities, complemented by a convenient storage shed. Additionally, a long driveway provides generous off-street parking.

    Listed with Espi Bagwell | 626-824-2267, Keller Williams Realty


    Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!


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