Everyone else starts at ‘Apply.’ You start at ‘You’re ready.’

What happens: You take a close look at your financial picture, your income, credit, savings, and comfort level, so you know what’s working, what needs attention, and what comes next.

What you need to do:

• Gather proof of your income (pay stubs or tax forms)
• Look at how much money you have saved
• Review your current debts and monthly payments
• Check your credit report and fix any mistakes
• Decide what monthly payment feels comfortable for you
• Complete your Home Advantage Readiness Profile
• Decide if you’re ready now or need more time

Outcome: You’re no longer guessing—you have a clear starting point.

What happens: Your financial information is reviewed and verified so you know what you can afford and what loan options may be available to you.

What you need to do:

• Choose a lender and complete a short application
• Allow a credit check
• Upload basic financial documents (like income and bank statements)
• Answer any follow-up questions
• Review your first Loan Estimate
• Receive your pre-approval letter

Outcome: You know what you can afford and are ready to start your home search.

What happens: You explore homes, compare options, and make offers based on what fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

What you need to do:

• Work with a real estate agent you trust
• Stay within your budget
• Look at total costs (taxes, insurance, fees—not just price)
• Make an offer with your pre-approval
• Review the home inspection and request repairs or negotiate based on the results

Outcome: You find a home that truly fits—financially and personally.

This is where your loan officially begins—accuracy matters.

What happens: Once your offer is accepted, you complete a full loan application tied to the property and confirm your loan details.

What you need to do:

• Provide your purchase agreement to your lender
• Provide confirmation of your earnest money deposit
• Confirm your loan details (rate, payment, term)
• Review your Loan Estimate and sign initial loan documents
• Lock your interest rate if needed
• Avoid new debt, large purchases, or job changes

Outcome: Everything is in motion and it’s starting to feel real.

This is where most delays happen—staying responsive keeps things moving.

What happens: Your loan file is reviewed in detail, and you may be asked to provide additional documents or explanations to move your loan forward.

What you need to do:

• Review and respond to any lender requests (conditions needed for approval)
• Send additional documents as needed
• Provide clear explanations about your finances if asked
• Confirm your employment if requested
• Stay responsive to keep your loan moving

Outcome: Your loan is coming together and moving closer to approval.

What happens: Your full financial profile and the property details are carefully reviewed. If everything meets guidelines, your loan moves toward conditional approval.

What you need to do:

• Send any additional documents requested
• Avoid changes to your job, income, or finances
• Keep your funds stable in your accounts
• Respond quickly to any lender questions

Outcome: You’re conditionally approved with a clear path ahead.

You’re almost there—final details matter.

What happens: Once all requirements are met, your loan is fully approved and you’re ready to move to closing.

What you need to do:

• Review your Closing Disclosure (final loan terms and costs)
• Get homeowner’s insurance in place
• Confirm where your closing funds are coming from
• Plan how you will send your funds (wire or certified check)
• Review and prepare for your closing

Outcome: You’re almost there—everything is lined up for closing.

What happens: You review and sign the final documents, funds are transferred, and ownership of the home is officially transferred.

What you need to do:

• Do a final walkthrough of the home
• Bring your ID and required funds
• Review your final numbers and documents
• Sign your closing documents
• Ask questions if anything is unclear

Outcome: The home is officially yours—and you get the keys.

You made it—now it’s time to make it yours.

What happens: You take possession of your home and begin settling in.

What you need to do:

• Set up your utilities (electric, water, internet, etc.)
• Update your address and forward your mail
• Set up your mortgage payments
• Plan for ongoing home expenses
• Move in and secure your home (locks, safety, etc.)

Outcome: You’re a homeowner—your next chapter starts now.