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Everything borrowers ask before starting their mortgage journey — explained clearly.

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✔ How does the homebuyer process work?

The homebuying process happens in clear, structured steps:

1. Get Pre-Qualified/Pre-Approved:
   We review your income, credit, assets, and goals so you know exactly what price range you’re comfortable in.

2. Find a Home:
   Your Realtor shows you homes that match your approved budget. Your pre-approval letter strengthens your offer.

3. Apply for the Loan:
   Once you’re under contract, we collect your documents, run disclosures, and lock in the loan strategy.

4. Appraisal + Inspection:
   An appraiser confirms the home’s value. An inspection helps you understand the property’s condition.

5. Underwriting:
   An underwriter reviews your file to ensure it meets guidelines. They may ask for additional documents (called “conditions”).

6. Clear to Close:
   Once all conditions are met, your loan is fully approved. Final numbers are prepared.

7. Closing:
   You sign your documents, pay your required funds, and the home becomes officially yours.

Throughout the entire process, we guide you step-by-step so nothing feels overwhelming or confusing.

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✔ Should I qualify for a mortgage before looking for a house?

YES — and it’s one of the most important steps.

Pre-approval helps you:

• Understand exactly how much you can afford

• Avoid wasting time on homes outside your budget

• Make competitive offers in a fast market

• Lock in a financial plan early (especially if self-employed)

Many Realtors will not start showing homes without a pre-approval letter because sellers expect it.

Getting pre-approved removes guesswork and gives you the confidence to shop smarter.

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✔ Can I buy a house if I'm self-employed?

Absolutely — and I specialize in self-employed buyers.

Self-employed borrowers can qualify with:

• Full tax returns

• Bank statement programs (12–24 months)

• 1099 income options

• Profit & loss statements

• DSCR loans for investors

• Non-QM loans with flexible income guidelines

You do not need W-2 income.
You do not need to pay high taxes to qualify.
You just need the right loan strategy — and that’s where I come in.

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✔ How do I know how much I qualify for?

Your approval amount depends on a combination of financial factors:

• Income or business cash flow

• Credit score and credit history

• Your current debts (DTI ratio)

• Down payment amount

• Loan program type

• The property itself (owner-occupied vs. investment)

I can run your numbers and give you a real pre-approval in about 10 minutes once I review your documents.

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✔ What is an interest rate?

Your interest rate is the cost of borrowing money from the lender.
It determines your monthly payment and how much you pay over the life of the loan.

Your rate is based on:

• Credit score

• Loan type

• Down payment

• Market rates

• Loan term (30-year, 15-year, ARM, etc.)

• Income profile and risk level

In most cases, the higher your credit score, the lower your interest rate.

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✔ What are closing costs?

Closing costs are the expenses required to complete your loan.
These are separate from your down payment.

They include:

• Appraisal fees

• Title and escrow charges

• Loan origination or lender fees

• Recording fees

• Prepaid taxes & insurance

Most borrowers pay 2%–4% of the purchase price, but this depends on your loan program and location.

You can also request seller credits or use lender credits to reduce out-of-pocket costs.

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✔ How much money do I need to buy a home?

The amount varies by loan type and loan program, but generally you’ll need:

• A down payment (as low as 1–3.5% depending on program)

• Closing costs (2%–4%)

• Earnest money deposit (credited back at closing)

• Inspection fee for purchases

• Appraisal fee unless waived

Some loans allow:

• Down payment assistance

• Gift funds

• Seller-paid closing costs

There are many low-cash-to-close options.

 

✔ Do I need a large down payment?

No — that’s one of the biggest myths in real estate.

You can buy a home with:

• FHA: 3.5% down

• Conventional: 3%–5% down

• VA: 0% down (for eligible borrowers)

• USDA: 0% down (rural areas)

• DSCR: varies by investor program

• Non-QM: flexible options

Your down payment depends on your loan program, credit, and goals — not on a mandatory “20% rule.”