From checking your rate to closing day, here’s exactly what happens — and what we’ll need from you at each step. A dedicated loan processor guides you the whole way.
Check the real-time, personalized rate quote for your loan scenario right on our home page. The results show the low rates from every lender we work with that matches your scenario — side by side, in one place.
It’s easiest to fill out the loan application online. Or come into one of our offices and we’ll help you complete the application and paperwork in person.
We’ll assign you an experienced loan processor who explains and guides you through the entire process from here on.
Once we have all your required documents, we can lock in your rate. We set up alerts to email or text you the moment rates change — when the rate and cost meet your goals, just call us and we’ll lock it for you.
We never lock without your permission. After locking, we always send an email confirming the exact rate, term, and any cost or cash-back tied to it.
Lenders typically lock for 30 days — we must close within that window or risk losing the lock. Some lenders allow paid extensions; others use a “worst case” policy where you keep your rate if the market holds, but re-lock at market if rates worsen. Time is of the essence.
An appraisal confirms the value of the property for the lender. It usually costs about $500; we’ll need a card or check to order it. If your loan is locked with no points or costs, the lender credit typically covers all closing costs, including the appraisal fee.
The appraisal fee is non-refundable once the appraiser has visited your property (a $75 trip charge applies if you cancel after the visit). The property must be in habitable condition, with smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors installed as required by law, for the loan to be approved.
It generally takes one to three days for the lender to decide. Most loans are conditionally approved, with a set of conditions that must be met before final approval.
Please send any requested documents to us right away — ideally within one to two days — so we can clear conditions as fast as possible. Speed here keeps your closing on track.
Once all prior-to-doc conditions are cleared, the lender reviews everything one final time and we order the loan documents — usually ready to sign within two days.
The documents go to a notary or closing agent, and the escrow office schedules a time for you to sign. When signing, keep your signature consistent, don’t cross anything out, don’t make changes, and don’t alter the date.
After the lender reviews and approves your signed documents, they verify your employment. Once that’s done, the lender wires the funds to the title company, which disburses the funds and records the paperwork with the county. At that point, your loan is closed — welcome home.