Finding the right lender is about much more than Googling who has the lowest rates. It's about finding the right person who, not only knows the ins and outs of all of the available options and financing programs, but will support you in the way that YOU need to be supported. Whether that is sitting down in person to review options, communicating via text, or providing periodic status updates, we want to find the person that suits your needs.

While getting pre-approved, isn't required, it helps you determine your budget. There's nothing worse than falling in love with a house and then finding out that it isn't a financial fit. Additionally, it shows sellers that you are serious and reduces the risk that the transaction won't close, saving them time and money. It will also reduce the amount of time needed to close on your new home.

During the pre-approval process, you will work with your lender to find the right mortgage for you and you will be asked to provide some information, including your tax returns, W-2 forms, pay stubs, bank statements, and list of monthly debt.

Once you have a signed contract for your new home, your lender will provide you with some initial disclosures and your loan estimate. The lender will also begin prepping and organizing your file by double-checking all paperwork, ordering an appraisal to confirm the value of your new home, and work with the title company to verify its title history. You'll want to be sure to avoid any changes in employment and making large purchases until your loan closes. In other words, avoid buying that sleek new living room set or new car, at least until you have the keys.

A loan underwriter, will review the completeness of your documentation, confirm that you meet the loan requirements, and ensure that your loan meets all investor requirements and state and federal regulations. It's possible that the underwriter may request additional information from you. Once they are satisfied, you will be issued a "clear to close" and final loan approval. You're almost there!

Now for the best part! Your mortgage company will coordinate with your title company to prepare your documents for closing. You will receive a Closing Disclosure (CD), which gives you a breakdown of how much money you will need to bring to the closing table, as well as the terms of the loan and other pertinent details. Ideally, it's very close to the Loan Estimate that you were previously provided. 3 days after you sign the CD, it will be closing time! Be sure to bring a photo ID and any closing money owed. After you and the seller sign the closing documents and the lender provides the funding for your loan, you'll get the keys to your new home! Yay!