The Basics
How Home Buying Actually Works
Here's the process from start to finish. You don't have to do any of this today, it's just good to know what's ahead.
Get Familiar With Your Numbers
Try our calculators below. No obligation, just a feel for what's possible.
Get Pre-Approved
When you're ready, we verify your finances so you know exactly what you can offer.
House Hunt With Confidence
Work with your realtor knowing your budget and pre-approval are already solid.
Make an Offer
We help you structure a competitive offer once you find the one.
Close on Your New Home
We walk you through the paperwork so nothing catches you by surprise.
Plain English
A Few Terms, Explained Simply
Mortgage terms can feel like a foreign language. Here are a few you'll hear often.
Pre-Qualified vs. Pre-Approved
Pre-qualified is a quick estimate based on what you tell us. Pre-approved means we've verified your finances, so you're ready to make offers.
Interest Rate vs. APR
Your interest rate is what you pay on the loan itself. APR also includes lender fees, so it's usually a little higher.
PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance)
Extra insurance required on some loans when your down payment is under 20%. It protects the lender, not you.
Escrow
An account that holds your property tax and insurance payments so they get paid on time, often rolled into your monthly payment.
Closing Costs
Fees paid at closing, things like appraisal, title, and lender fees, beyond your down payment.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)
How much of your monthly income already goes toward debt. It's one of the main things lenders look at.
No Commitment
Play With the Numbers
Just curious what's possible? These tools are free to use, no forms, no obligation.
Home Budget Calculator
Tell us a monthly payment you're comfortable with, and see a home price to match.
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Mortgage Calculator
See what a home price actually costs each month, principal, interest, and all.
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Property Tax Estimator
Property taxes vary a lot by neighborhood here. See what to expect where you're looking.
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Free Homebuyer Class
We host a free class covering all of this and more, no pressure, no obligation. Want to know when the next one is?
Notify MeHave a specific question?
Down payments, credit scores, loan programs, we get these questions all the time. Check our FAQ.