A Home Buying Process Built Around You.

From light-touch guidance to a fully managed experience, choose the level of support that fits your goals — with premium options offering access to off-market homes and enhanced strategic services.

CHOOSE THE EXPERIENCE THAT FITS YOU

Whether you're hands-on, looking for guidance, or want every advantage in a competitive market, there's a service level built around your needs.

Save on Commission.

Self Service

Looking to save on commission and confident navigating the market on your own? This option is designed for savvy buyers who are comfortable browsing sites like Zillow, attending open houses, and handling much of the early search process independently. Just keep in mind, you’ll trade some flexibility and access to private tours in exchange for lower fees.

  • Contract Review

  • Disclosure Review

  • Offer Preparation Guidance

  • CMAs and Pricing Recommendations

  • Negotiation Services

  • Escrow Management

Unlimited Private Tours.

Full Service

Prefer a more traditional, collaborative buying experience? This option includes a detailed wants-and-needs consultation, access to an interactive search platform and unlimited private showings—giving you the flexibility to tour homes on your schedule. Ideal for buyers who value expert guidance, strategic input, and the ability to move confidently and privately through the market.

  • Includes everything in Self Service PLUS

  • Wants and Needs Consultation

  • Property Recommendations

  • Interactive Search Platform

  • Property Previews

  • Unlimited Private Showings

Access to Off-Market Properties.

VIP Service

For serious buyers who want every advantage in a competitive market. This elevated tier includes access to exclusive off-market opportunities, proactive outreach to uncover hidden inventory, priority same-day showings, and extended support beyond standard business hours—giving you unmatched access, speed, and personal attention.

  • Includes everything in Full Service PLUS

  • Access to Off-Market Inventory

  • Inventory Creation Services

  • Same Day Showings (if available)

  • Priority Support Outside Business Hours

Client Testimonials

Testimonials

What Clients Are Saying

★★★★★
"Sean gave me very personalized service."
"Sean gave me very personalized service. My home search was somewhat unique and he expanded my search area and suggested options that hadn’t occurred to me. His deep knowledge of financing options is a strong asset; he knows the angles and will be shrewd and creative while handling contract negotiations. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Sean for your real estate needs."
– Peter Sadler
★★★★★
"Sean Engmann has been invaluable"
"I highly recommend Sean Engmann for anyone interested in buying a home, particularly first time home buyers. The prospect of home ownership seemed intimidating at first but Sean has helped us realize the steps toward attaining our goal and ultimately showed us it is a dream well within reach. Sean Engmann has been invaluable to my husband and I through the entire process."
– Michelle Johnson
★★★★★
"I would recommend Sean in a heartbeat."
"After just 15 minutes of hearing my likes and dislikes, Sean knew exactly what types of homes to show me. While he is obviously a great listener, he is also attentive, completely trustworthy, and has great follow-through. I would recommend Sean in a heartbeat."
– April Benavides
★★★★★
"Stress Free, Timely and Efficient."
"I am making it a point to share our positive experience, stress free, timely and efficient. Thanks to Sean especially who seemed to work tirelessly to check off all our many requirements - spare us any confusion and provide balanced insightful perspectives."
– David Finkelstein
★★★★★
"Professional and knows the Bay Area"
"Sean is very professional and knows the Bay Area. He listened to what my needs and budget were and showed me appropriate listings. He is not pushy and respects my time."
– Darty Werner
★★★★★
"Brings tons of experience and knowledge"
"Sean helped me and sisters find our home within a few months, he was very patient with us and understanding of our wants and needs. He brings a ton of experience and knowledge that was required in this market. He was able to navigate through some difficult situations and I would definitely recommend Sean to anyone who is currently looking for property."
– Richard Cayaban

Resources for Buyers

5 Biggest Mistakes 1st Time Buyers Make

Buying your first home can be exciting—but missteps are common. Many buyers start without getting pre-approved, only to find out too late they can’t make an offer. Others overlook key costs like taxes, insurance, and maintenance, which can stretch their budgets thin. Skipping the home inspection to save money often leads to expensive surprises down the line. Some buyers wait to save 20% down and get priced out as values rise, not realizing there are lower down payment options. And finally, not using your agent’s full expertise can cost you—especially when it comes to pricing, contingencies, and negotiation. Avoiding these pitfalls helps ensure a smoother, more successful home buying experience.

The Importance of Getting Pre-Approved First

Before you start house hunting, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is essential—especially in competitive markets. Pre-approval gives you a clear picture of your budget, helps you focus your search, and positions you as a serious, qualified buyer in the eyes of sellers. It also speeds up the offer process, reduces the risk of delays, and may allow you to lock in an interest rate early. Just as important, it uncovers any credit or financial issues ahead of time, giving you the chance to address them proactively. Ultimately, pre-approval provides confidence, clarity, and a competitive edge as you begin your home buying journey.

Importance of Acting Decisively When Buying

In a competitive market where homes move fast, acting quickly and decisively can make all the difference. The strongest buyers are the ones who come prepared—with pre-approval and proof of funds already in hand. Submitting an early, well-crafted offer gives you a real edge, often earning serious consideration before others have a chance to weigh in. Sellers tend to favor the first clean offer, especially when it’s free of delays or extra conditions. Hesitation opens the door for competition, and once another offer is in play, your leverage drops. That said, speed shouldn’t mean overpaying—your goal is to be first and strong, not reckless. Buyers with less cash or contingencies can often level the playing field by moving quickly and confidently.

How to Prep Your Finances to Buy

Before starting your home search, get your finances in order. Lenders will review pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and debt obligations—self-employed buyers may need additional documentation. Set a realistic monthly budget that includes property taxes and insurance to avoid becoming “house poor.” Understanding basics like down payments, loan-to-value ratios, and debt-to-income thresholds will help you gauge how much you can truly afford. Pre-qualification gives you a general idea, pre-approval includes a credit check, and underwritten pre-approval offers the strongest position when making an offer. Remember: just because you qualify for a certain amount doesn’t mean you should spend it. Account for closing costs, reserves, and avoid taking on new debt during escrow. Smart prep leads to a smoother, more confident purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What are the advantages of working with a buyer's agent?

Buyer's agents offer many advantages. Buyers agents have a fiduciary duty to put your interests first. They can provide guidance through buying process, help you assess the value of the home, craft your offer and negotiate on your behalf, guide you through the disclosures and point out red flags. During escrow, buyers agents can also recommend vendors to assist with things like home inspections. For buyers wanting help finding the right home, buyers' agents can screen and select properties to help your search and identify properties you may not have considered, or provide access to homes not on the open market. They can also provide private showings of properties that interest you.

Question 2: How do you get paid and how much does it cost to work with you?

Once you decide to hire me as an agent, you will sign a buyer representation agreement that specifies my compensation, which is negotiable and based on the services you require. I offer 3 tiers of service: self service, full service - which includes private tours and search assistance, and VIP service - which includes access to off-market properties. Most clients select full service. I only get paid if the transaction closes and my compensation comes out of your closing costs unless you negotiate for the seller to compensate me out of their closing costs which is common, but not guaranteed.

Question 3: I heard that the seller pays for the buyer's agent, is that true?

No, that is not true but it is a common misconception because historically the seller published and offered commission to buyer's agents. That practice is now prohibited. It is common practice now for many buyers to request a concession from the seller in the contract to compensate their agent, but that is negotiable between the buyer and seller and if an agreement cannot be reached, the buyer is responsible for compensating their agent.

Question 4: What is the first step to take in buying a house?

Contact me first! Every buyer's circumstance is different and I can help you map out a plan that works for you. Typically, the first step is to begin to map out how to pay for the home which often involves getting pre-approved for a loan, but that can vary if you have a home to sell as well.

Question 5: Why should I work with you instead of going with the listing agent?

The listing agent has a fiduciary duty to the seller and a financial incentive to get the highest price. While some listing agents respect their duty to both parties and have high integrity, in practice, not all do. Working with me gives you independent representation and guarantees that your interests are fully protected. One reason many work with the listing agent is to get a discount on commission. That is less common in practice now that all buyers must have a buyer representation agreement, but if you work with me and select self-service, I offer the same commission discount you would typically get by working with the listing agent - but you are fully and independently represented by me.

Question 6: If I don't like your service can I fire you?

Absolutely! I offer a risk-free cancellation guarantee. If you're not satisfied for any reason, you can cancel with no questions asked and owe me no commission.

Question 7: What makes you different from other agents?

I combine expert level prep, strategy, negotiation with clear communication that meets you where you are with zero pressure. My goal is to help educate you and make sure you feel supported throughout the whole journey. Unlike many other agents who have a one-size fits all approach, I offer clear service tiers at different price points ensuring that you pay only for the service you receive. I am also a certified Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®).

CA DRE #02117899 | 650-744-2055