Path to Home Ownership To help get you across the Finish Line

1. Work on Your Credit 💳

Keep at least 3 credit cards with low balances and pay on time to boost your score.

2. Improve Your Tax Returns 🧾

If self-employed, avoid writing off too much so your net income qualifies.

3. Consult a Mortgage Broker 🤝

Get a personalized plan and understand your real buying power.

4. Get Pre-Approved 📄

Submit documents and obtain a strong pre-approval letter.

5. Hire a Great Realtor 🏠

Choose an agent who will represent and negotiate for you.

6. Shop for Homes 🔍

Start visiting properties that fit your budget and criteria.

7. Make an Offer & Get Accepted ✍️

Work with your agent to submit a competitive offer.

8. Complete Your Inspections 🛠️

Do your Home Inspection, 4-Point, and Wind Mitigation.
Send all reports to your lender.

9. Provide Updated Documents to Your Lender 📑

Share any new bank statements, pay stubs, or financial updates.

10. Order the Appraisal 🏡📉

Your lender orders an appraisal to confirm property value.

11. Get Insurance Quotes 🛡️

Shop for homeowners insurance and provide the quote.

12. Loan Approval & Conditions 🔎

Underwriting reviews your file — complete conditions quickly.

13. Receive Clear to Close (CTC) ✅

This is your final approval — you're almost there!

14. Wire Funds to the Title Company 💼💵

Send your down payment and closing cost funds securely.

15. Closing Day 🎉🔑

Sign the final documents and celebrate becoming a homeowner!

(If Self-Employed)

Avoid writing off too much. Show enough net income to qualify for a mortgage.

3. Consult a Mortgage Broker

A broker will evaluate your full profile and build a clear step-by-step plan.

4. Get Pre-Approved

Submit your documents and receive a pre-approval that shows your buying power.

5. Hire a Great Realtor

Choose a knowledgeable agent to negotiate and represent you.

6. Shop for Homes

Begin touring properties within your approval range and preferred areas.

7. Make an Offer & Get Accepted

Submit a strategic offer with your agent’s guidance.

8. Complete Your Inspections

Order:
• General Home Inspection
• 4-Point Inspection
• Wind Mitigation Report
Send all inspection reports to your lender.

9. Update Your Lender With Documents

Provide new bank statements, pay stubs, or any updates as needed.

10. Order the Appraisal

Your lender orders an appraisal to determine the value of the property.

11. Get Insurance Quotes

Shop for homeowner’s insurance and send the quote to your lender.

12. Loan Approval & Conditions

Underwriting reviews your file. Complete any conditions quickly.

13. Get Your Clear to Close (CTC)

This is your final approval — you’re almost a homeowner!

14. Send Funds to the Title Company

Wire your down payment and closing costs as instructed.

15. Closing Day

Sign the documents, get your keys, and celebrate your new home!