Moving to Los Angeles: A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Dream Home

Relocating to Los Angeles is an exciting adventure, whether you’re trading Manhattan’s skyscrapers, San Francisco’s fog, or Chicago’s lakefront for LA’s year-round sunshine and eclectic neighborhoods. From the bohemian vibes of Silver Lake to the historic charm of Pasadena, LA offers something for everyone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the move and find your dream home in one of the city’s most sought-after areas.

Fly Out to Explore Los Angeles Neighborhoods

Before committing to a specific area, spend time exploring LA’s diverse neighborhoods. Start with Silver Lake, known for its mid-century modern homes and artistic energy, then move to Los Feliz, with its walkable streets and stunning views of Griffith Park. Don’t miss Echo Park, a haven for creatives, Highland Park, full of historic charm and trendy hotspots, and Pasadena, with its tree-lined streets and stately Craftsman homes.

Spend a weekend driving through these areas, walking their streets, and visiting local cafes or parks to get a feel for the vibe. Each neighborhood offers a unique culture, so it’s crucial to find the one that resonates with your lifestyle.

Find a Local Real Estate Agent

Once you’ve identified a neighborhood (or two) that feels like home, connect with a local real estate agent who specializes in the area. A knowledgeable agent will have insider access to listings and can guide you through the nuances of LA’s competitive housing market.

For example, an agent with expertise in Silver Lake real estate can help you find mid-century gems tucked into the hills, while someone familiar with Pasadena may introduce you to sprawling estates or classic Craftsman homes. Ask for referrals or browse online reviews to ensure you’re partnering with someone who truly knows the neighborhood.

Define Your Priorities

Los Angeles homes come in all shapes and sizes, so hone in on your must-haves. Consider factors like:

• Architecture Style: Do you love sleek, mid-century modern designs in Silver Lake, or do you dream of a Spanish Revival in Los Feliz?

• Bedrooms and Bathrooms: Whether you’re moving solo or with family, decide on your ideal bed/bath count.

• Outdoor Space: Is a yard for gardening or a pool for entertaining non-negotiable?

• Views: Many LA neighborhoods, like Los Feliz and Silver Lake, offer stunning city or mountain views.

• Walkability: Most neighborhoods in Los Angeles are not walkable. If you’re moving from a big city and looking to get around LA without a car, it’s possible but difficult. Check out York Blvd & Figureoa St in Highland Park, Vermont Ave & Hillhurst Ave in Los Feliz Village, Glendale Blvd in Atwater Village, Sunset Junction in Silver Lake, Sunset Blvd in Echo Park and Colorado Blvd in Old Pasadena or Lake Ave in Pasadena for walkable areas in North East Los Angeles.

• Schools: Are you looking for public or private schools? Some neighborhoods have great public options while others don’t. Great Schools is a great resource.

Knowing your priorities will help you narrow your search and focus on properties that truly fit your needs.

Spend Time in LA & Attend Open Houses

Commit to spending as much time in LA as possible during your home search. This allows you to not only explore more neighborhoods but also attend open houses and get a feel for the local market.

• Best Days for Open Houses: Tuesdays are broker preview days, great for seeing homes before they hit the general market. Saturdays and Sundays are ideal for attending multiple open houses in one day.

Use open house visits to compare homes, ask questions, and visualize yourself living in the space. It’s a fantastic way to understand what’s available within your budget and how different homes measure up to your priorities.

Dive into the Details

As you explore homes, pay attention to more than just square footage. Los Angeles homes are about lifestyle. Picture yourself in the space:

• Will the backyard host barbecues with friends?

• What is your commute to work like? How far are you willing to drive?

• Is there a quiet spot to work remotely?

• Does the neighborhood feel safe and convenient?

Work closely with your agent to evaluate each property, and don’t be afraid to make multiple trips to your top picks.

Seal the Deal

Once you’ve found “the one,” your real estate agent will guide you through the offer process, inspections, and negotiations. Be prepared for a fast-moving market, particularly in highly desirable areas like Silver Lake and Highland Park, where homes can receive multiple offers within days.

Why Los Angeles? A City of Neighborhoods and Possibilities

Relocating to Los Angeles isn’t just about the sunshine—it’s about finding a neighborhood that feels like home. Whether you’re drawn to the creative energy of Echo Park, the laid-back charm of Pasadena, or the urban sophistication of Los Feliz, LA offers endless possibilities.

Ready to make the leap? Start planning your visit, and get ready to discover why so many people fall in love with the City of Angels.