Got Questions? I’ve Got Answers.
Helping you make sense of home loans, one question at a time. Browse the most common mortgage questions below.
The best loan decisions start with the right information — and the right person to walk you through it.
⭐ 5.0 Rated | Realtor® + Loan Officer | Honest answers, zero pressure
Your Mortgage Questions — Answered
Navigating home loans doesn’t have to be confusing. Click any question to expand the answer.
What types of home loans do you offer?
I offer a wide range of loan options including Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, Jumbo, Non-QM, Foreign National, Reverse Mortgages, and more. Together, we’ll find the right fit for your needs.
How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage?
Getting pre-approved is easy! You can apply online through my secure portal, and I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step. A pre-approval gives you a clear picture of your budget and strengthens your offer when buying a home.
How much money do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the loan type. Some programs allow as little as 3% down, and others, like VA or USDA loans, offer 0% down options. We’ll look at what works best for your budget and goals.
How long does the mortgage process take?
On average, most loans close within 21 to 30 days. Some may be quicker, depending on how fast we gather the needed documents and complete the steps.
What’s the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate of how much you might be able to borrow. Pre-approval is more in-depth and includes reviewing your credit, income, and assets — giving sellers more confidence in your offer.
Can I refinance to lower my monthly payment?
Absolutely. Refinancing can reduce your interest rate, lower your monthly payment, remove PMI, or help you tap into your home’s equity. Let’s chat about what makes sense for you.
Do you work with first-time homebuyers?
Yes! I love helping first-time buyers understand the process, explore loan options, and feel confident every step of the way.
How do I know which loan program is right for me?
That depends on your financial goals, credit profile, and how long you plan to stay in the home. I’ll guide you through your options so you can make the most informed decision.
What documents will I need to apply?
Typically, you’ll need income verification (like pay stubs or tax returns), bank statements, and a photo ID. I’ll give you a personalized checklist to make it easy.
Can I buy a home if I’m self-employed or have irregular income?
Absolutely. There are special loan programs, like Non-QM loans, designed for self-employed borrowers or those with unique income situations.
Is it worth refinancing my mortgage right now?
It depends on your current rate and financial goals. Refinancing can help lower your monthly payment, eliminate PMI, or let you tap into home equity. Let’s run the numbers together.
How long does it take to close on a home loan?
Most loans close within 30 days, but it can vary depending on the type of loan and how quickly we can gather all required documents.
👉 Don’t see your question? Let’s talk through it — I’m happy to help.
When Should You Reach Out?
If any of these sound like you, a quick conversation could save you time, money, or both.
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Thinking About Buying
Not sure where to start? I’ll walk you through pre-approval, loan options, and what to expect — so you feel confident before you ever make an offer.
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Wondering About Refinancing
Rates shifted? Credit improved? Life changed? A quick call can tell you if refinancing makes sense right now — no commitment needed.
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Just Have Questions
No agenda required. If something about your mortgage doesn’t make sense, I’m here to explain it in plain English — no sales pitch, just answers.
Still Have Questions?
I’m always happy to chat. Reach out directly or start your free application — no obligation required.
There’s no such thing as a dumb question — just ones that haven’t been asked yet.
Garry McDonald | NMLS #1922072 | DRE# 01781703 | (949) 534-6686
