Frequently asked questions

Pre-qualification is an informal estimate based on self-reported info — no documentation, no credit pull. Pre-approval is a full review of your income, assets, and credit. Sellers take pre-approvals seriously; pre-qualifications are largely ignored in competitive markets.

Less than most people think. With FHA you need 3.5% down. With conventional you can go as low as 3%. VA loans require $0 down. Add closing costs (typically 2–5%) and you're looking at roughly 5–8% of the purchase price total — before grants, which can significantly reduce that.

FHA loans accept as low as 580. Conventional loans start at 620. The best rates typically go to borrowers with 740+. We work with buyers across the credit spectrum and can often find options where others can't.

Your interest rate is the cost of borrowing the money. APR includes the interest rate plus lender fees — origination, points, and some closing costs — expressed as a yearly rate. APR is the more complete number for comparison shopping.

Closing costs typically run 2–5% of your loan amount and include lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, recording fees, and prepaid items. On a $350,000 purchase, expect $7,000–$17,500. These can often be reduced with grants or lender credits.

A bank can only offer its own products at retail prices. A broker shops 90+ wholesale lenders on your behalf — the same lenders banks use but at lower pricing. You get more options, better rates, and a dedicated advocate who works for you, not the institution.

The broker is compensated by the lender at closing — a standard broker compensation disclosed on your Loan Estimate. You never pay us directly. This is fully disclosed and regulated under federal law (RESPA).

Pre-approval: same day to 48 hours. Full purchase: typically 21–30 days from ratified contract to closing. Refinances: 30–45 days. Having your documents ready speeds everything up significantly.