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The Best Mortgage Resources,
‍Period.

The internet is great resource, if you know where to look

A 6 Step Guide to Getting a Mortgage

Step 1

Determine affordability

Based on your income, debts & credit worthiness

Fix any credit issues/errors before you shop
Reduce recurring debts such as car loans
Use the DTI ratio to guide your home budget

NerdWallet's Affordability Calculator

Understand loan options

Loan term, interest rates, and loan program types

15 vs 30yrs or something else?
Fixed vs Adjustable Rate Mortgages
Conventional or govt. backed like FHA & VA

CFPB's Loan Type Descriptions

Step 2

Step 3

Get pre-approved

A pre-approval is not a loan application

It's a lender verification letter
It enables you to start making offers
It pulls your credit & uses W2's for income

Better's 3 min Pre-approval

Comparison shop lenders

Compare Rates, Fees, and Flexibility of Terms

Get quotes from banks, brokers & online
Compare APRs where fees can be hidden
Avoid risks like pre-payment penalties

CFPB's Loan Estimate Explainer

Step 4

Step 5

Lock, submit & get cleared

It typically takes 30 days to get a loan fully underwritten

A lock holds your rate during underwriting
Submit all documents & get an appraisal
Underwriting will be clear you to close

Loan Documentation Checklist

Prepare for closing day

Understand your rights and all documents before signing

Get your closing disclosure 3 days prior
Bring the cash need to close on your home
Read the promissory note & deed of trust

Closing Form Summaries

Step 6

CFPB Resources

Interest rate explorer

Interactive Closing Disclosure

Good Calculators

Monthly payment estimator

Should I refinance?

How much will PMI cost me?

1% lower rates & up to 50% less down

Get Pre-approved