Before house hunting, know your purchasing power. We’ll estimate your borrowing limit using standard lender criteria—just answer a few simple questions to Pre-Qualify.

You can also opt for pre-approval, which involves verifying your income, credit, assets, and debts. Getting pre-approved first helps you:

  • Stay within your price range
  • Strengthen your offer in negotiations
  • Close faster once you find the right home

More on Pre-Qualification

  • LTV & Debt-to-Income Ratios

    Loan-to-Value (LTV) measures how much a lender will finance relative to your home’s value—sometimes up to 100% for well-qualified borrowers. Your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio compares monthly debts (auto loans, credit cards) to gross income; ideally, mortgage payments stay under one-third of income. Higher DTI may require a larger down payment.

  • FICO™ Credit Score

    FICO scores quantify credit risk, factoring in payment history, balances, credit age, new inquiries, and mix of accounts. Every credit check can slightly lower your score, so authorize pulls only after choosing a lender to avoid unnecessary inquiries.

  • Self-Employed Borrowers

    Without traditional pay stubs, self-employed applicants rely on tax returns (usually two years’ worth) to prove income. Be ready with complete, organized returns to streamline approval.

  • Source of Down Payment

    Lenders expect you to fund down payments and closing costs. Savings are common, but “gift funds” from approved donors are acceptable with a signed gift letter confirming no repayment is expected.

Home loans come in many forms—each suits different needs. Whether buying or refinancing, consider these two basics:

  • Fixed-Rate Mortgage
    • Terms of 15 or 30 years with a locked-in rate and stable monthly payment.
    • Ideal if you plan to stay in your home over seven years and want predictable costs.
  • Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
    • Initial fixed period, then periodic rate adjustments that can lower—or raise—your payment.
    • Best for shorter stays (under five years) or if you expect your income to grow.

Work with our team to match your timeline, risk tolerance, and budget to the perfect program.

Click to Apply for a Loan

Complete our secure online application to get started.

Once we receive your application, our processor verifies your information. Approval hinges on your ability to repay and the property’s value. We’ll check:

  • Income & Employment: Confirm your earnings comfortably cover your mortgage.
  • Credit Report: Review payment history and existing debts to assess risk.
  • Assets: Ensure you have funds for down payment and closing costs.
  • Appraisal: Verify the home’s market value, considering location and condition.
  • Additional Documentation: Provide any extra paperwork needed for a final decision.

Tips to Strengthen Your Approval:

  • Fill out your application thoroughly and accurately.
  • Respond quickly to document requests, especially if you’ve locked a rate.
  • Avoid large bank transfers without clear records; prepare gift letters if needed.
  • Postpone major purchases until after closing—new debt can affect approval.
  • Plan travel around closing—consider a Power of Attorney if you’ll be away.

Once approved, you’ll sign the final documents, typically before a notary. Review your rate, terms, and personal information carefully. Bring a cashier’s check or arrange payment for your down payment and closing fees. You’ll also need proof of homeowners (and flood, if required) insurance.

After signing, you’ll usually wait up to three days (for refinance transactions) before funding, per federal law. Then, the loan closes and funds disburse—congratulations, you’re officially a homeowner!

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