The Financing Process

Demystifying Home Loans

The home loan process can feel overwhelming. By collaborating with a trusted lender and remaining informed through every step of the process, from pre-approval to closing, you can have a significantly more comfortable experience. You’ll want to consult with a mortgage specialist (or two) to find a professional who you are confident will provide you with the best care.

To get an idea of what to expect, review the following home loan process steps.

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Our Preferred Lender

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Amy Pohl

Senior Loan Advisor
Cornerstone First Mortgage logo, a financial services company specializing in residential mortgage lending and home loan solutions

Amy Pohl, with the Pohl Home Team, brings more than 25 years of Mortgage Lending and Banking experience, complemented by an MBA in Business Finance from Arizona State University. She is not only a seasoned lender but a financial strategist, dedicated to aligning the right home loan with your long-term financial goals. Amy’s undeniable passion for the real estate and mortgage industries, coupled with her unwavering commitment to her clients and referral partners, has earned her a trusted reputation within the community. Her dedication to education, transparency, and excellence has resonated with home buyers, professionals, and local REALTORS®, many of whom frequently refer new clients to her.

Amy began her career in 2000 as a licensed financial banker, holding Series 6 and 63 certifications, where she created personalized financial strategies for clients’ short- and long-term goals. Realizing that a home is often her clients’ largest asset, she transitioned into mortgage lending to help clients make informed decisions about homeownership and how it fits into their broader financial strategy.

 

“I’m committed to educating my clients on their home loan options, explaining the pros and cons of each choice. My goal is to provide the knowledge and confidence you need because without all the information, how can you make a fully informed decision? Whether your goal is to retire mortgage-free or find the right loan for your unique situation, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.”

 

At the Pohl Home Team, you can expect a clear and smooth process, with a dedicated team supporting you at every stage. Whether you are a first-time home buyer, self-employed, have less-than-perfect credit, looking to renovate, a high-net-worth family, or someone needing to leverage down payment assistance, just to name a few, Amy and her team provide thorough pre-approvals, on-time closings, and competitive rates. Amy prides herself on their motto, “You can expect an experience defined by honesty and hard work,” and she shows this through action every day. She’s committed to earning your trust, not just through words, but through the results she delivers.

 

Amy’s success is built on your results. She and her team are committed to delivering unparalleled service and a seamless, unforgettable process. “Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments in life, and I am motivated to exceed expectations. It’s more than just a house—it’s a home.”

 

Amy looks forward to meeting you and earning your trust!

Apply Now

Step One:

Get Pre-Approval

Before you start looking for a home to buy, it’s wise and proactive to meet with a lender to get pre-approved for a loan amount. Offers accompanied by a pre-approval letter are stronger and will stand out, especially when the seller is receiving multiple offers.

To gain pre-approval, your preferred lender will gather information about income, assets, and debts to help determine how much you can borrow. This includes gathering a credit report, W-2 forms, pay stubs, federal tax returns, and recent bank statements.

There are a variety of home loan programs offering different advantages depending on your unique needs and preferences. Your preferred lender can go over the specifics of each to ensure you find a loan option that best aligns with your needs.

Loan Preapproval graphic with price and term

Estimate Your Monthly Payment

Estimate your mortgage payment, including the principal and interest, taxes, insurance, HOA, and Private Mortgage Insurance.

Price

Annual Tax

Loan Term (Years)

Down Payment %

Interest Rate %

Monthly HOA

Monthly Insurance

$3,198.20

Estimated Monthly Payment

Principal

$2,398.20

(75.0%)

Taxes

$500.00

(15.6%)

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

$0.00

(0.0%)

HOA

$100.00

(3.1%)

Insurance

$200.00

(6.3%)
Screenshot of a home valuation tool

Step Two:

Find the best loan

Collaborating with a top-notch local loan officer will ensure you have access to competitive rates and programs that best fit your individual needs. Take the first step by completing this form to get connected today!

Step Three:

Application and processing

When you find the perfect property and your offer is accepted, your lender will help you complete a full mortgage loan application, discuss down payment options, and explain any related fees.

Then, your application is submitted for processing where the documents are reviewed. Your lender will also order a home appraisal and a property title search.

The next part of the application process involves sending everything to an underwriter who will review and approve the entire loan package to make sure it meets all compliance regulations.

It is not unusual to receive requests for additional documentation or clarification during this phase of the application process.

Real Estate application graphic

Step Four:

Signing and finalizing the deal

Once your loan is approved, you’ll need to set up homeowners insurance.

Your documents will be sent to the title company and the closing will be scheduled for you to sign the necessary paperwork and pay any additional costs to complete the purchase of your new home.

After the loan goes through the required recording process, the purchase is complete, and you officially own your new home!

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The Ethridge Team

Realtor® | The Ethridge Team

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