Frequently Asked Questions in the Home Purchasing Process
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A mortgage is a loan used to purchase a home, where the property serves as collateral.
The borrower makes regular payments over a specified term to repay the loan.
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Qualification depends on various factors including your credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, employment history, and the size of the down payment.
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Commonly required documents include proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns), credit history, employment verification, and identification.
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Initially, we perform a soft credit check when you start your mortgage application. This type of inquiry does not negatively impact your credit score and helps us provide you with a preliminary assessment of your eligibility.
If you decide to proceed with the application, we will then perform a hard inquiry, which can cause a small, temporary dip in your credit score. This impact is generally minimal and should recover within a few months, provided there are no additional negative factors affecting your credit.
If you apply for multiple mortgages within a short period (typically within 14 to 45 days, depending on the credit scoring model), these inquiries are usually treated as a single inquiry, minimizing the impact on your score. This allows you to shop around for the best rates without significantly hurting your credit.
Maintaining good credit habits, such as paying bills on time and keeping credit card balances low, can help mitigate any negative effects from the inquiry. Once you secure a mortgage, making consistent, on-time payments can positively influence your credit score over time.
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A fixed-rate mortgage has an interest rate that remains constant throughout the loan term, while an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) has an interest rate that can change periodically based on market conditions.
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Interest rates vary based on market conditions, loan type, and individual borrower qualifications. Contact us for today's rates and personalized quotes.
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The amount you can borrow depends on your financial situation, including your income, credit score, and existing debts. Use our mortgage calculator or speak with one of our team members for an estimate.
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A pre-approval is a lender's estimate of how much you can borrow, based on your financial situation. It shows sellers you are serious and financially prepared to purchase a home.
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Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is required if your down payment is less than 20% of the home's value. It protects the lender in case you default on the loan.
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Down payments typically range from 3% to 20% of the home's purchase price.
Some loan programs may offer lower down payment options.
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Closing costs are fees paid at the end of the home buying process. They typically range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount and include charges for appraisal, title insurance, and loan origination.
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Yes, refinancing can help you lower your interest rate, reduce your monthly payment, or access home equity. Contact us to discuss if refinancing is right for you.
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An escrow account is set up by your lender to pay property taxes and insurance on your behalf. A portion of your monthly mortgage payment is deposited into this account.
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We offer a variety of loan options including conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans, USDA loans, jumbo loans, Down Payment Assistance, and more.
Contact us to find the best loan for your needs.