Client Resources

Everything you need to navigate your loan — from your first question to closing day. Bookmark this page; we’ll keep it updated as you move through the process.

KC

Kelvin Caiati

Mortgage Broker
NMLS #2753683

How the Loan Process Works

From your first call to your closing handshake — here’s exactly what to expect at every stage.

1

Pre-Approval

We review your goals, finances, and credit to determine how much you qualify for. You receive a pre-approval letter you can use when shopping for a home.

1–2 days
2

Home Shopping & Offer

Work with your real estate agent to find your home. Once your offer is accepted, send us the executed purchase agreement and we’ll move into the formal application.

Varies
3

Loan Application & Disclosures

You’ll receive your Loan Estimate within three business days. We lock your rate, finalize your loan program, and you sign initial disclosures.

3–5 days
4

Processing

We gather your documentation, order the appraisal, and request title work. You may be asked for a few additional items as the file is prepared for underwriting.

1–2 weeks
5

Underwriting & Conditional Approval

The underwriter reviews everything and issues a conditional approval — a short list of final items needed to clear to close. We handle most of these for you.

1–2 weeks
6

Closing Day

You receive your Closing Disclosure at least three days before closing. You sign your final docs, the loan funds, and you get your keys. Welcome home.

What to Have Ready

Income
  • Last 2 years of W-2s (or 1099s if self-employed)
  • Most recent 30 days of pay stubs
  • Last 2 years of federal tax returns (all schedules)
Assets
  • Most recent 2 months of bank statements (all pages)
  • Retirement & brokerage account statements
  • Documentation for any large recent deposits
Identity & Property
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Social Security number
  • Purchase agreement (once accepted)
  • Homeowner’s insurance contact

Mortgage Terms, Translated

APR vs. Interest Rate
The interest rate is what you pay on the loan itself. APR includes the rate plus fees, giving you the true cost of borrowing year over year.
Escrow
An account that holds money for your property taxes and insurance, paid as part of your monthly mortgage so you don’t get hit with a big annual bill.
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance)
An added monthly cost required when your down payment is less than 20%. It protects the lender — and drops off automatically once you reach 22% equity.
Discount Points
An upfront fee you can pay to permanently lower your interest rate. Worth it if you plan to keep the loan long enough to recoup the cost.
Loan Estimate & Closing Disclosure
Two standardized federal forms. The Loan Estimate comes within 3 days of application; the Closing Disclosure comes at least 3 days before you sign.