Buying a Home
Buying a home in the Davis–Sacramento region can look very different depending on your budget, lifestyle, commute preferences, and long-term goals. Some people arrive knowing exactly where they want to live, while others are still exploring communities and trying to understand what homeownership might look like in the area.
This section brings together commonly used resources for the homebuying process. Whether you're searching for a home or simply considering homeownership as a future option, these tools can help you get started.
Mortgage programs
Several mortgage programs are available to eligible UC Davis and UC Davis Health employees to help make homeownership more accessible. Visit the Mortgage Programs page to learn about available programs, eligibility requirements, and application information.
Learn about home mortgage programs available to you at UC Davis
Home buying resources
The following resources are commonly used to search for homes, understand the market, and learn about the home buying process.
Home buying guidance
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Buying a Home
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Owning a Home
- Freddie Mac – Homebuyer Education
- Fannie Mae – HomeView Course
Affordable homeownership programs
Property listings
Learn about communities
Explore What Matters to You
If you’re comparing neighborhoods or exploring where to live, it can help to focus on a few priorities such as commute, cost, schools, walkability, or neighborhood feel.
Try searching:
- “what is it like to live in [neighborhood]”
- “best neighborhoods in [city] for walkability / quiet / parks”
- “rent vs buy in [city], California”
- “cost of living in [city or neighborhood], California”
- “commute from [neighborhood] to [work location]”
- “homes for sale in [city], CA”
- “property taxes in [county], California”