buying real estate in Northern California

[Julie J.]

Hello all

Thank you in advance for reading my question.

My situation is

$150-180k down payment

740+ credit score

$300-400k equity in home

100K/yr income

I am trying to buy a home that ranges between $650-900k

What would be the best use of my money to qualify for best rates and more priced home? 

Pay off current mortgage or use it as down payment?

Or should I even tap into my equity to put down more on a new home?

Most lenders I've talked to said I only qualify for 500K with current situation.

Also any perspective or thoughts on Northern CA market this year?

Happy and prosperous investing

Thank you