Resources
Home Financing Guide
Everything you need to prepare for the home buying process — from pre-approval documents to closing day. Download each guide below and share with your clients.
This page was designed to prepare buyers for the home buying process. Know what is required and how you can help educate clients on best practices for a successful transaction. Each section below includes a description and a downloadable resource.
Step-by-Step Home Buyers Package
The most important step in the home buying process is first obtaining a Mortgage Pre-Approval. This step-by-step guide provides detail on documents, timelines, and government regulations associated with real estate transactions.
Download Home Financing GuideResidential Loan Process
Know what is to come during your transaction! See the steps you will take before the closing on your new home — from application through final approval and closing day.
Download Home Loan ProcessResidential Loan Checklist
See the required documents needed to start your loan. Some additional documents may be needed based on the buyer's financial situation. Being prepared speeds up the approval process.
Download Home Loan ChecklistGovernment Appraisal Checklist
This checklist is designed to assist you in identifying potential repairs associated with government financing available for properties that meet minimum health and safety requirements (FHA, VA, USDA).
Download Government Appraisal ChecklistProperty Scrub Sheet
This checklist is a valuable tool in identifying potential property concerns upfront. It will assist in the decision-making process and negotiations of a potential property before making an offer.
Download Property Scrub SheetSeller Concessions Cheat Sheet
Seller concessions occur when the home seller pays certain closing costs on the home buyer's behalf — such as title insurance, processing fees, origination fees, inspection fees, and transfer taxes. Limits vary by loan type:
| Loan Type | Concession Limit |
|---|---|
| FHA & Rural Development | 6% of purchase price maximum — used for closing costs and prepaid items. |
| Conventional — 10%+ down | 6% maximum seller concessions. |
| Conventional — Less than 10% down | 3% of purchase price maximum. |
| Conventional — 20%+ down | 9% of purchase price maximum. |
| Conventional — Investment Property | 2% of purchase price maximum. |
Buy/Sell vs. Sell/Buy
See the proven strategies used to help your clients buy and sell their homes for the best financial outcome. Includes the universal standard for 20% down and analysis of whether that approach leads to the best financial result for your client.
Download Buy/Sell vs. Sell/BuyCyber Security Tips
When looking for home loan financing, it is more important than ever to be cautious and aware of possible scams. Here are helpful tips for safeguarding your finances and identity during the loan process.
Send Securely
In loan transactions, you will often receive requests for supporting documentation — including documents that reflect your date of birth, full name, and social security number. Always share documents through a secure portal. If you must email, encrypt those documents and verbally provide the key to your Loan Officer.
Confirm the Source
If someone asks you for information and you don't know who they are or why they are asking — call your Loan Officer! They can tell you all the players associated with your loan and whether the request is legitimate. Always ask before sharing.
Don't Send Funds Without Checking
Scammers aggressively target the real estate market. If someone emails you asking for funds to be wired for your closing — ALWAYS confirm with your Loan Officer first. Scammers send emails that look like they are from the title company but are not. It is very hard, if not impossible, to recover wired funds. Check and double-check before sending any money.
Ready to Get Pre-Approved?
Connect with our preferred lenders to start your pre-approval and take the first step toward homeownership.
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