What credit score do I need to buy a home?
Most conventional loans look for a 620 or higher, and FHA loans can work with lower scores. A higher score usually means a better rate, but a lower score rarely means "no" — it just shapes which program fits you best.
How much do I need for a down payment?
Less than most people think. Conventional loans start at 3% down, FHA at 3.5%, and VA and USDA loans can be 0% down. We'll figure out the right strategy for your savings and your goals together.
How long does the mortgage process take?
From application to closing, plan on 30–45 days. Pre-approval usually takes 24–48 hours. If your timeline is tight, tell me up front and we'll build the plan around it.
What documents will I need?
Typically 2 years of tax returns, 2 recent pay stubs, 2 months of bank statements, and a photo ID. Self-employed? You'll need a bit more, and I'll give you a checklist tailored to your situation.
Should I get pre-qualified or pre-approved?
Pre-approval is the stronger tool — it verifies your income and credit, and it shows sellers you're serious. Pre-qualification is a quicker estimate. In a competitive market, pre-approval is the one you want.
Can I buy a home if I'm self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed buyers typically provide 2 years of tax returns and profit-and-loss statements. I work with business owners and freelancers regularly and will structure the loan around how your income actually works.
How much house can I afford?
A common guideline: keep your housing payment near 28% of your gross monthly income, and total debts under about 36%. Your rate, down payment, and other debts all move that number, so a pre-approval gives you a real figure — not a guess.
What are closing costs, and how much should I expect?
Closing costs are the fees to finalize your loan — appraisal, title, taxes, and lender charges. Plan on roughly 2% to 5% of the loan amount. You'll see them itemized on your Loan Estimate early, so there are no surprises at the closing table.
What's the difference between interest rate and APR?
The interest rate is what you pay to borrow the money. APR (annual percentage rate) adds most lender fees and certain costs, expressed as a yearly rate. That makes APR the better tool for comparing loan offers side by side.
Should I choose a fixed-rate or an adjustable-rate mortgage?
A fixed-rate loan keeps the same payment for the whole term — predictable and simple. An ARM starts with a lower rate for a set period, then adjusts with the market. If you plan to move or refinance within a few years, an ARM can be worth a look.
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