Buying a home on the Los Angeles Westside moves fast. Terranova buyer’s agents guide you from the first conversation to the day you get your keys, and because we have an in-house mortgage brokerage, your financing and your offer are planned together.
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Homes for sale in Culver City, Mar Vista and Marina del Rey
Our office sits between three of the Westside’s most popular markets. Culver City offers a walkable downtown, its own school district and Metro E Line access. Mar Vista is known for mid-century homes, Venice Boulevard shops and a Sunday farmers market. Marina del Rey adds waterfront condos and townhomes minutes from the beach. We also serve Santa Monica, Venice, West LA, Malibu and more. Search current homes or tell us what you want and we will find it.
The home-buying process, step by step
- Get clear on your budget. We review income, savings, credit and your target monthly payment, then run the numbers across several loan types so you see real options.
- Get preapproved. A preapproval letter tells sellers you are serious. Our lending team can issue one quickly, often within a day or two once documents are in.
- Define your search. Area, home type, commute, schools, outdoor space, HOA fees. We narrow the list so you spend weekends on the right homes.
- Tour and compare. We pull comparable sales for every home you like, so you know whether the asking price is fair.
- Write a strong offer. Price is only one piece. Terms, timing, contingencies and financing strength all affect whether an offer wins.
- Escrow, inspections and appraisal. We schedule inspections, review disclosures and HOA documents with you, and track every deadline.
- Close and move in. We confirm the final numbers, do the final walk-through and hand you the keys.
Financing options for Westside buyers
Because Terranova Lending Group compares more than 80 lenders, we can match you to the right program instead of forcing you into one product:
- Conventional and jumbo loans for strong credit and larger loan amounts.
- FHA, VA and USDA loans with low down payments for first-time buyers, veterans and eligible rural-area purchases.
- Bank statement loans for self-employed borrowers whose tax returns do not show their full income.
- DSCR loans for investors who qualify on rental income.
- Construction loans for ground-up homes and ADUs.
Explore the details on our mortgage loans page.
First-time buyers
If you have never bought before, expect to hear a lot of unfamiliar terms. We explain each one in plain English and Spanish, and we point out costs that surprise first-timers: closing costs, property tax reassessment, HOA dues and insurance. You should never feel rushed or talked down to.
Buying with Bitcoin or other crypto
If your funds are in Bitcoin, we can help you convert to dollars through BitPay and time the conversion with escrow. Read our guide to buying real estate with Bitcoin.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan. Some programs allow as little as 3% to 3.5% down, VA loans can require no down payment for eligible borrowers, and jumbo loans typically need more. We will show you the real numbers for your situation.
Do I pay my agent as a buyer?
Compensation arrangements are negotiable and are explained in a written agreement before we start working together. We walk you through exactly how it works and what, if anything, comes out of your pocket.
How long does it take to buy a home?
Once an offer is accepted, escrow commonly runs 30 days, though it can be shorter for cash purchases or longer for complex deals. The search itself depends on your budget and flexibility.
Can I buy a home before selling my current one?
Often yes. Bridge loans, home equity lines and contingent offers are options, and we compare them with you so you know the risks.
Do you help investors buy rental property?
Yes. We help investors evaluate multifamily and small rental properties and arrange DSCR, conventional or commercial financing.