Simple. Clear. No Surprises.

Getting a mortgage doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful — here’s exactly what happens from start to finish.

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 structure your loan based on your situation and issue a strong pre-approval so you can shop with confidence (and make competitive offers).

3

Find the Right Property

As a Realtor® + Loan Officer, I help you evaluate properties, structure your financing, and write offers that actually win in competitive situations.

👉 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

We finalize your loan, sign documents, and you get the keys — with no surprises along the way.

Why This Process Works Better (And Why Most Deals Fall Apart Without It)

When your Realtor and Loan Officer are the same person, the whole experience changes.

🤝

One Point of Contact

No back-and-forth between agent and lender — I handle both sides so nothing falls through the cracks.

🏆

Stronger Offers That Win

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

Fewer Delays, Smoother Closings

Tight coordination between real estate and lending means fewer surprises and faster timelines.

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?
Most purchases close in 25–35 days from contract. Pre-approval can happen in as little as 24 hours. Refinances are often faster — typically 2–4 weeks.
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 — but there are options for almost every situation.
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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