Should I talk to a lender before I talk to a Realtor?

Talk with Tanja first. In the East Bay, a loan has to do more than get approved. It also has to work with home condition, appraisal requirements, and a competitive offer. Tanja explains what your offer needs to win here, then introduces you to lenders she trusts. That order protects your offer.

What is the difference between pre-approval and pre-qualification?

Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender. Pre-approval means the lender has reviewed your documents. Sellers usually take an offer backed by a pre-approval more seriously, but the loan also has to suit the home you want. Talk with Tanja first, and the seminar shows why.

How much money do I need to buy a home?

Plan for more than the price. Buyers usually budget for a down payment, closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses. The right amount depends on the home and the loan. Tanja can walk you through the numbers and introduce you to trusted lenders. The seminar covers the costs to expect before you write an offer.

How do I get my offer accepted?

A strong offer is clear, complete, and backed by a pre-approval. Price matters, but so do timing, terms, and how well your agent negotiates. Tanja is a Master Certified Negotiation Expert, a credential held by fewer than 0.1% of real estate professionals. The seminar shares three tips you can use.

What happens after my offer is accepted?

After the seller accepts, escrow opens. During escrow you typically complete inspections, review disclosures, finalize your loan, and prepare to close. Each step has deadlines, so it helps to know them ahead of time. The seminar explains what to expect from acceptance to getting your keys.

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Learn the East Bay buying process before you make an offer

Short videos from Tanja Odzak, an East Bay Realtor, that explain how buying a home works, step by step. No cost and no pressure.

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Why learn it first

What's inside the seminar

Buying a home comes with a lot of steps, and nobody explains them in order. You may be wondering where to start, what to line up before you tour, and what happens after an offer is accepted. These videos answer those questions in plain words. Have a question about how Tanja is paid? Ask her anytime. For the tax side of owning a home, ask your tax professional.

Home Buying Process: First StepWhat to do before you start touring.
Down Payment HelpPrograms that may help with a down payment or closing costs. Eligibility varies.
Pros and Cons of Purchasing a HomeA balanced look, for first-timers and returning buyers alike.
How Much Money Do I Need?The costs to plan for, beyond the price.
Offer Accepted, What's Next?What happens once escrow opens.
Sewer Lateral ComplianceWhat to know in the East Bay cities that require it when a home sells.
BESO: What Berkeley Buyers Should KnowBerkeley's energy rule at the time of sale, in about two minutes.
Buying and Selling TogetherHow the two fit together when you are moving up.
What Nobody Tells You About Buying an Older East Bay HomeWhy condition matters, and what to look for.

Plus 3 more videos inside.

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Straight answers

Questions buyers ask

Question 1 of 6

Where do I start if I want to buy a home in the East Bay?

Start with a conversation with Tanja before you talk to anyone else. She learns what you want, explains the steps in order, and introduces you to lenders she trusts when the time is right. In a competitive market, getting the order right early saves costly detours. The seminar walks through each step.

Learn the buying process, 2 minutes at a time.

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This seminar describes Tanja's general process. It is not legal, tax, or lending advice.

In their words

What buyers say

Aidin & MarcFirst-time buyers
“Tanja was really amazing to work with. She offered lots of support at each stage of the home-buying process and made it much simpler and less stressful for us as first-time home buyers. We were faced with a two-week closing time and she got it done with time to spare.”
Cassandra & Miguel
“If you're looking for a realtor who goes above and beyond, consistently delivers results, and genuinely cares about your needs, look no further than Tanja. Her market expertise, extensive knowledge on infrastructure, and ability to navigate complex situations made our home buying experience seamless.”
Lupine & LuisitoFirst-time buyers
“The market is crazy right now, so extra challenging and stressful for a first time home buyer. Tanja was with us every step of the way and got us a home in less than a month!”
Carline & JamesFirst-time buyers
“As first time home buyers in this crazy competitive Oakland market, we knew it was not going to be easy. Tanja was wonderfully helpful, patient, communicative and positive throughout the entire process.”
Joe & Tyler
“She never pushed us to offer on a home that wasn't what we wanted.”
CharlieWatched the seminar
“I'm really glad I watched this home buyer seminar. It was really helpful and helped me understand what it takes to buy a house in today's market.”

Tanja Odzak, East Bay Realtor with eXp Realty

Your guide

Meet Tanja

Tanja Odzak is an East Bay Realtor with eXp Realty. She has sold 107 homes, more than $100 million in all, and was named a RealTrends Verified Top 1.5% Realtor® nationwide in 2026. She is a Master Digital Marketer and a Master Certified Negotiation Expert, and she is sought after for her knowledge of older homes. Her guiding principle: Putting People Before Profit.

Tanja Odzak, DRE #01992169, eXp Realty.