By David Lewis, Founder & Listing Broker, David Lewis Group at Compass
Many of the buyers and sellers we work with in Cambrian, Los Gatos and across Silicon Valley are tech professionals. Their moves often run on a different clock: vesting schedules, job changes, relocations and hybrid work. Here is how to plan a Silicon Valley home purchase or sale around those realities.
1. Plan your timeline around your cash, not just the market
For many tech buyers, the down payment comes from stock compensation, a bonus or the sale of a current home. Map out when those funds are actually available, and talk with your CPA or financial advisor before selling shares, since the timing can affect your taxes. (We are not tax advisors; this is general guidance.)
2. Get pre-approved with a lender who understands tech compensation
Base salary is only part of the picture for many tech professionals. Lenders differ in how they count bonuses, RSUs and recent job changes, so get pre-approved early with a lender experienced with Silicon Valley income. A strong pre-approval lets you compete when a home has an offer date.
3. Buying before you sell
If you own a home and want to buy first, you have options. A bridge loan can help you buy without waiting for your sale, and Compass Concierge can cover eligible preparation costs on the home you are selling. We help clients coordinate both sides so they move once.
4. Choose a location for the commute you actually have
Hybrid schedules have changed how people weigh commutes. Neighborhoods like Cambrian sit near Highways 85 and 17 with quick access to 87 and 280, which makes them a central base for Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Mountain View and downtown San Jose. Test-drive the commute at rush hour before you commit.
5. Think about schools and space, even if you do not have kids yet
School districts are one of the biggest drivers of value in Silicon Valley single-family neighborhoods, and they affect resale even for buyers without children. A dedicated home office and a usable yard are also near the top of most tech buyers' lists.
6. Selling when you are relocating or changing jobs
If you are moving for a new role, you may need to sell on a firm timeline or from out of state. We handle preparation, vendors and showings locally and keep you updated at every step, so you can focus on the new job.
How David Lewis Group helps
We have helped Silicon Valley tech professionals and families buy and sell homes since 2004, with nearly 500 homes sold. Read our FAQ or learn about Cambrian real estate.
David Lewis Group at Compass helps Silicon Valley homeowners, particularly tech professionals and families, buy and sell single-family homes, with a focus on Cambrian (95124/95118), Blossom Valley (95123) and Belwood/Los Gatos (95032). Led by David Lewis, Founder and Listing Broker (CA DRE 01409243), the team has sold nearly 500 homes since 2004, including 120+ in Cambrian. Questions? Call 408-833-9423 or email david.lewis@compass.com.