Four Simple Steps to Making the Loan Process Go Smoothly

1) Get your documents & finances in order.

You should start with reviewing your credit report. Your credit report will be used by your prospective lender as a measure of how you manage your finances. Good credit gets you better rates and a stronger negotiating position for terms. Most people are surprised at their report’s contents because errors in reporting are common. Now is the time to clean them up.

Also provide the following:
Copy of two recent pay stubs the two most recent W2s
(If you are self employed, you need two years of tax returns and a YTD profit and loss statement)
Provide a copy of your current mortgage statement
Verification of any additional income
A copy of your homeowner’s insurance policy
A copy of your deed
Current loan provider
For a home equity loan, provide a copy of the note on your first mortgage.
Title information
Tax verification information
Previous property assessments, if applicable
If you own any rental property, provide copies of the rental agreements and two years of tax returns
Letter from employer stating date of hire, position, salary and year-to-date earnings
Current value of your house
Outstanding loan amounts
Three months bank statements for each bank, IRA/401K, stock and mutual fund account.
Co-borrower information
Provide a copy of divorce decree if applicable.
If you are not a US citizen, provide a copy of your green card (both sides)
If you are not a permanent resident provide a copy of your H1 or L1 visa.

2) Get pre-approved to determine how much you can borrow.

Once you get qualified you will have a good idea of how much you can afford. A pre-qualification gives you a no obligation quick and easy idea of what you can borrow. It is a helpful and painless first step. Pre-approval verifies your income, credit and debts. This involves more time and expense but is very useful when making an offer on a property. Sellers will obviously consider an offer more seriously that is pre-approved over one that is of unknown backing.

3) Work with our loan officers to find the best mortgage for you.

Your loan officer will help you find the mortgage that fits you best. There are a lot of factors to be considered. How long do you plan to keep the loan? Would a fixed or adjustable rate mortgage be best for you? How many points should you pay? What other costs are involved? When should lock in your rate? Based on your needs and situation, your loan officer will show you which mortgage products work best for you. During the whole process, we are there for you to answer your questions with our years of experience.

We will review your loan application and supporting materials with you to make sure that your loan package is correct and as strong as possible. Then we will shop your loan application package to several lenders to find you the best deal possible.

4) Close your loan and settle

As your closing date nears, your mortgage broker and real estate agent should check its progress on a daily basis, because staying on top of things means you’ll know immediately if there’s a problem that must be dealt with.

For your closing you should bring all of your documentation that you’ve used during the whole mortgage shopping process. At the closing itself, everyone involved in your transaction will be present (buyer, seller, closing agents and attorneys). You will sign the necessary legal documents, pay your closing costs and escrow items and receive your closing documents.

Now you receive your key, move in and celebrate!

Remember, you should never hesitate to ask questions. Ask whatever you need to ask so that you understand the entire process.