Step by Step
The Lending Process
From your first inquiry to the day you get the keys � we guide you through every step with clarity and expertise.
Pre-Qualification
The journey begins with a simple conversation. We gather basic information about your income, assets, and credit to give you a sense of what you may qualify for. This soft pull does not affect your credit score.
- No hard credit pull required
- Can be done online in minutes
- Get a ballpark loan amount immediately
Pre-Approval
Pre-approval is a more thorough review. We collect and verify your financial documents � pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and tax returns � and run a full credit check to issue a formal pre-approval letter.
- Hard credit pull (typically only drops score 5�10 points)
- Pre-approval letter valid 60�90 days
- Strengthens your offer significantly in competitive markets
House Hunting
Armed with your pre-approval, you shop for homes with confidence. When you find the one, we're here to answer questions about how purchase price changes affect your payment and qualification.
- Stay in touch with us as you shop
- Let us know if your target price range changes
- Avoid major financial changes during this time
Loan Application
Once you have an accepted offer, we submit your formal loan application. We'll guide you through our secure online portal to upload any remaining documents and officially lock your interest rate.
- Rate lock protects you for 30�60 days
- Receive Loan Estimate within 3 business days
- Time-sensitive: respond to document requests promptly
Processing & Underwriting
Our processor compiles your full file and submits it to underwriting. An underwriter reviews every detail of your application, orders an appraisal, and may request additional documentation ("conditions").
- Respond to conditions quickly to avoid delays
- Appraisal is ordered during this phase
- You'll receive a Closing Disclosure at least 3 days before closing
Clear to Close
The underwriter has reviewed everything and issued a "Clear to Close" (CTC). Your loan is approved! We'll confirm your final closing figures and coordinate with the title company to schedule your closing date.
- Review your Closing Disclosure carefully
- Wire your down payment and closing costs to the title company
- Schedule final walkthrough of the property
Closing Day
You sign the final loan documents, your lender funds the loan, and the title company records the deed. Congratulations � you're officially a homeowner! We hand you the keys and celebrate with you.
- Bring a government-issued ID
- Bring cashier's check or confirm wire sent
- Expect to sign 100+ pages of documents
Be Prepared
Documents You'll Need
Having these documents ready speeds up your approval significantly. We'll give you a custom checklist when you apply.
Income
- Last 2 pay stubs
- Last 2 years W-2s
- Last 2 years federal tax returns
- YTD profit & loss (if self-employed)
- 2 years business tax returns (if self-employed)
Assets
- Last 2�3 months bank statements
- Last 2�3 months retirement/investment statements
- Gift letter (if using gift funds)
- Sale of current home documentation
Identification
- Government-issued photo ID
- Social Security number
- Green card or visa (if applicable)
Property
- Signed purchase agreement
- HOA contact info (if applicable)
- Homeowners insurance quote
Ready to Begin?
Start with a quick pre-qualification � takes about 5 minutes and won't affect your credit score.