Understand Each Step of Your Home Loan.

Here’s how I’ll help you understand the financing steps, prepare your documents, and know what comes next.

The best time to understand the process is before you’re in the middle of it.

⭐ 5.0 Rated | Realtor® + Loan Officer | Guiding you from start to finish

Your Path to a Home Loan — Step by Step

Here’s what happens from the moment you reach out to the day you get your keys.

1

Quick Call (or Online Application)

We start with a quick conversation to understand your goals, timeline, and financial picture — or you can apply online if you prefer.

2

Strategy + Pre-Approval

I’ll review your application and supporting documents, explain the options, and discuss any conditions that apply to a pre-approval.

3

Find the Right Property

My real estate experience helps me connect your financing with the purchase process, so you can prepare a stronger, better-informed offer.

👉 Want help getting started? Let’s run your numbers together →

4

Loan Processing + Underwriting

Once you’re in contract, I handle the financing process, coordinate with all parties, and keep everything moving smoothly.

5

Close + Get Your Keys

Once the required conditions are met, we’ll review the closing steps and documents so you understand what to expect before funding.

Why Coordination Matters

My experience across real estate and lending helps me understand how the financing and purchase timelines fit together.

🤝

One Point of Contact

I’ll explain the financing steps and coordinate with your real estate agent and the other professionals involved.

🏆

Prepare a Stronger Offer

Smart loan structuring can make your offer more competitive — giving you an edge in a crowded market.

⚡

Fewer Delays, Smoother Closings

Clear communication helps everyone identify missing information and address issues that could affect closing.

Buying or Refinancing? Here’s the Difference

The process is slightly different depending on your goal — here’s a quick breakdown.

🏠

Buying a Home

  • ✓ Pre-approval first
  • ✓ Home search + offer strategy
  • ✓ Loan tied to purchase timeline
👉 View Purchase Options
💰

Refinancing

  • ✓ No home search needed
  • ✓ Focus on rate, cash flow, or equity
  • ✓ Faster, simpler process
👉 Explore Refinancing

What Most People Want to Know

Quick answers to the questions I hear most often.

How long does this take?
The timeline depends on your program, documentation, appraisal, and underwriting. I’ll discuss a realistic target for your loan and explain what could affect it.
Do I need 20% down?
Not at all. There are programs with as little as 0% down (VA, USDA) or 3–3.5% down (Conventional, FHA). We’ll find the best fit for your budget.
What credit score do I need?
It depends on the program. Some options work with scores as low as 580. The higher your score, the better your rate — and eligibility depends on the full application and program guidelines.
When should I get pre-approved?
As early as possible. Pre-approval gives you a clear budget, makes your offers stronger, and speeds up the entire process when you find the right home.

👉 Have more questions? Visit the full FAQ page.

Let’s Get You Moving Forward

Whether you’re ready now or just exploring your options, the first step is simple.

No pressure. No obligation. Just clarity.

Most people start with a quick call — it makes everything easier.

Garry McDonald | NMLS #1922072 | DRE# 01781703 | (949) 534-6686

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