Everything you should know before we get started. No fine print, no surprises, just how I do things.
When your agent introduces us, I'll reach out to set up a quick intro call. From there, here's what you can expect from me:
Response time: I respond to calls, texts, and emails within a few hours during business days. If something is urgent and time-sensitive, text me. I'll get back to you fast.
Group communication: Your agent stays in the loop on everything. I don't have side conversations that leave anyone guessing. When we hit milestones or if anything comes up, I update both of you at the same time.
No ghosting: You'll never wonder what's happening with your loan. If there's a delay, I tell you. If something changes, I tell you. Silence means everything is on track, but I'll still check in so you know I'm here.
A lot of people hesitate to apply because they think it's a bigger deal than it is. Let me clear that up.
Applying is not a commitment. It's the only way for me to give you real numbers. Without an application, anything I tell you about rates and payments is a guess. With one, I can give you exact figures based on your actual financial picture.
It takes about 15 minutes. You'll fill out a secure online application with your income, employment, assets, and some basic info. I'll walk you through anything that's confusing.
Yes, applying involves a credit check. Here's the reality: it's one inquiry, and it typically drops your score by about 5 points temporarily. It recovers within a few months, often sooner. If you're rate shopping (which you should feel free to do), all mortgage inquiries within a 45-day window count as one single inquiry. The system is designed for this.
After you apply, I review everything and come back to you with a clear picture: what you qualify for, what your rate looks like, what your monthly payment would be, and what we need to work on if anything.
Just you and me. 15 minutes. I learn about your situation, answer your questions, and we figure out if working together makes sense. No pressure.
If you're ready, you fill out the application online. I review it and pull credit. Within 24-48 hours, I come back with your pre-approval and real numbers.
I walk you through what you qualify for, what your rate and monthly payment look like, and what to expect going forward. No jargon, just straight answers.
Your agent takes the lead here. You search, tour, and find the right home. I'm in the background making sure your financing is solid and answering any questions that come up along the way.
When you're ready to make an offer, we all work together. I make sure the offer aligns with your numbers and expectations so there are no surprises down the road.
Your agent negotiates the deal. Once you're under contract, I lock your rate, order the appraisal, and start processing your loan. I keep both you and your agent updated on every milestone.
You'll get your final numbers at least 3 days before closing. No surprises. You sign, get the keys, and you're a homeowner. The whole process from application to closing typically takes 30-45 days.
Buying a home involves a lot of people. Here's a simple breakdown of who handles what so nothing falls through the cracks.
Pre-approval and financing. I handle your application, find the best loan for your situation, lock your rate, manage the underwriting process, and make sure you close on time with the numbers I quoted you.
Finding the right home. Your agent handles the search, tours, negotiations, inspections, and contract details. They're your advocate in the real estate transaction.
Provide documents when I ask for them (pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns). Don't make any major financial changes during the process (no new credit cards, no big purchases, no job changes).
Here's how I think about fees: the numbers I show you upfront are the numbers you see at closing. That's it.
I don't quote you a low rate to win your business and then inflate fees later. I don't add junk fees. I don't change things at the last minute when it's too late for you to walk away.
Your Loan Estimate is real. When I send you a Loan Estimate, those numbers are as accurate as I can make them. Some third-party costs (title, appraisal) may vary slightly, but my fees don't change.
If something does change (because life happens, rates move, or your situation shifts), I tell you immediately and explain why. You'll never be surprised at the closing table.