HomeLight

OCTOBER 22, 2021

It’s tough to say without a mortgage approval, but it always helps to start with a home affordability calculator. You may be wondering how affordability calculators work if you’re ready to get some numbers down on paper before showing up for a pre-qualification meeting with a lender. How much are closing costs?

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HomeLight

FEBRUARY 12, 2021

As a seller, you’re usually not taking on additional risk by accepting an offer from a buyer pre-approved for an FHA loan than you would with a buyer pre-approved for a conventional loan. Defective paint surfaces in homes constructed pre-1978. of all mortgage originations. down payment. A leaking or worn out roof.

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FHA loan Loans Pre-approval Pre-qualification 111

Redfin

JULY 3, 2025

Some lenders may require a finalized divorce decree before approving a mortgage, as this document outlines debt and asset division, alimony, and more. These details directly impact your debt-to-income ratio , how much you afford and borrow. If you’re the one making those payments, they count as debt.

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Debt-to-income ratio Purchase and sale agreement Pre-approval Finance 31

HomeLight

AUGUST 31, 2020

For example, “In my area, the Kentucky Housing Corporation offers several programs, like down payment and closing cost assistance,” says agent Gary Wantland of Bowling Green, Kentucky. You may have a preapproval, but a preapproval does not guarantee formal loan approval. down and a minimum credit score of 580.

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Debt-to-income ratio FHA loan Pre-qualification VA loan 93

Realty Biz

JANUARY 19, 2024

This documentation will be necessary when applying for a mortgage pre-approval. If your credit score needs improvement, address any outstanding debts or errors in your credit report. It's advisable to reach out to multiple lenders and obtain pre-approval. Next, examine your credit score and history.

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Debt-to-income ratio Pre-approval Purchase and sale agreement Inspection 100

Rochester Real Estate

NOVEMBER 5, 2015

For example, if you use a bank for your loan you may already have a pre-existing relationship with them and they sometimes offer very competitive interest rates. Have you tried calling a bank on a Saturday night to get a pre-approval letter? These include improving credit and balancing your debt to income ratio.

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Finance Mortgages VA loan Pre-approval 52

Marco Santarelli

MARCH 3, 2025

The rate you actually receive will depend on several factors, including your credit score, down payment, debt-to-income ratio, and the specific lender you choose. Cons: Refinancing involves closing costs. It may take several years to recoup the costs through lower monthly payments.

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Mortgages Fixed-rate mortgage Debt-to-income ratio Pre-approval 102

HomeLight

DECEMBER 8, 2023

This equity is then used to provide you with the necessary funds to make a down payment and handle closing costs on your new home in Ohio. How a bridge loan unfolds: You can use the equity from your existing house to cover the down payment and closing costs of your new home.

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Equity Loans Debt-to-income ratio Home sale contingency 111

Marco Santarelli

MARCH 20, 2025

Therefore, it's essential to carefully evaluate your potential savings and closing costs before making a decision. Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Lenders assess your DTI to determine your ability to manage your debt obligations.

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Mortgages Debt-to-income ratio Principal VA loan 52

Redfin

MARCH 4, 2025

A 401(k) is a type of retirement savings account, where you elect a certain portion of your income to go into the account. The difference between these two accounts is that traditional 401(k) contributions are pre-tax, so youll be taxed once taking them out. How does withdrawing from a 401(k) affect mortgage approval?

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Debt-to-income ratio Loans Pre-approval Closing costs 31

Realty Biz

JULY 19, 2023

Obtain a pre-approval letter from lenders to understand your borrowing capacity. Consider community property and debt implications during the mortgage process. Obtaining a Pre-Approval Letter from Lenders Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is an essential step in the home-buying process.

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Mortgages Pre-approval Debt-to-income ratio Closing costs 76

HomeLight

OCTOBER 2, 2020

Buyers with lower credit scores and higher debt-to-income ratios are more likely to face overlays, especially when shopping at the very top of their price range. Overlays are lender-specific, so switching lenders may make sense if you’re worried about your loan not being approved. You may pay higher closing costs.

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Closing Mortgages Loans Closing costs 97

Redfin

AUGUST 29, 2024

However, there are a lot of things to learn about how to buy a house, like current mortgage rates, your credit score, home inspections, and closing costs. Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) Another major factor that a lender will consider when approving your mortgage loan is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI).

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Earnest money deposit Purchase and sale agreement Pre-approval Debt-to-income ratio 63

Redfin

FEBRUARY 10, 2021

Have a Healthy Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI). Another key component banks consider when issuing loans, is your debt-to-income ratio. The debt-to-income ratio is a lender’s way of comparing your monthly housing expenses and other debts with how much you earn. Closing costs*.

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Debt-to-income ratio Pre-approval Inspection Purchase and sale agreement 76

Redfin

AUGUST 12, 2024

Additionally, VA loans have limited closing costs and no prepayment penalties. Income stability : Lenders prefer borrowers with a stable income and employment history. Documenting at least two years of consistent income can be crucial. What are the benefits of getting pre-approved for a mortgage?

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Loans Mortgages Pre-approval Fixed-rate mortgage 74

Redfin

JULY 11, 2023

How does the mortgage pre-approval process work? Mortgage pre-approval is a crucial step in the homebuying process. Pre-approval provides a clear understanding of your budget and helps you focus your search on affordable homes. What are closing costs?

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Pre-approval Mortgages Pre-qualification Debt-to-income ratio 59

HomeLight

MAY 31, 2021

One of the first things you’ll want to know is just how much house you can afford , which is based on your income, credit score, debt-to-income ratio (DTI), and savings amount (including your down payment). I had some clients a few years ago that had trouble qualifying because they had a lot of debt.

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Mortgages Debt-to-income ratio Loans Closing costs 85

Redfin

SEPTEMBER 27, 2021

Shopping for a mortgage, you might encounter lenders who pre-qualify you for a higher loan amount than you expected. Many lenders work with standard debt-to-income ratio calculations which don’t take into account other costs of home ownership. Determine your debt to income ratio (DTI).

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Redfin

MAY 16, 2023

Various programs are available for first-time homebuyers in Maryland, including the 1st Time Advantage 5000 , which can assist with up to $5,000 in down payment and closing costs. Having a pre-approval letter in hand when you start your search shows sellers that you are a serious buyer and can afford the homes you are interested in.

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Redfin

MAY 3, 2023

Get pre-approved and secure your dream home Work with a lender to find the right loan for the home you love. Get pre-approved How does mortgage insurance work? As the borrower, you pay the cost of mortgage insurance each month, although you are actually paying to cover the lender.

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Mortgages FHA loan Debt-to-income ratio Pre-approval 66

Redfin

AUGUST 3, 2022

Here are the steps to determine how much house you can afford: First, determine your debt to income ratio (DTI). This is your monthly expenses versus your cash intake or the bills you pay divided by your gross monthly income. Debts include recurring bills, such as car payments, daycare payments, and student loans.

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Purchase and sale agreement Pre-approval Title Debt-to-income ratio 76

Marco Santarelli

MARCH 24, 2025

Your Credit Score and Financial Situation: Lenders look at your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and overall financial health to assess risk. Be Aware of Closing Costs: Factor in closing costs, which can include appraisal fees, title insurance, and other expenses. This can lead to higher rates.

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Mortgages Pre-approval Debt-to-income ratio Principal 52

HomeLight

AUGUST 16, 2021

Smaller issues like court judgments can also result in not getting your mortgage approved. Debts and expenses. To calculate your debt-to-income ratio or DTI, lenders will look at your recurring debts relative to your monthly income. Closing costs. Closing Disclosure.

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Loans Mortgages Bankruptcy Purchase and sale agreement 105

HomeLight

NOVEMBER 13, 2024

You’ve already got the keys in your pocket and your shoes in the closet, but when you close you’ll officially be the homeowner. Make sure you’re prepared to pay the typical closing costs. While you rent, you can focus on paying down your debt. Here are some pros and cons to weigh.

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Purchase and sale agreement Debt-to-income ratio Agents Mortgages 98

Redfin

JULY 3, 2023

Next, determine your budget and calculate how much you can comfortably afford, considering factors like down payment, closing costs, and monthly mortgage payments. Get pre-approved from a lender Securing a pre-approval when buying a home in Arizona can provide numerous advantages.

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Redfin

SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

Various programs are available for first-time homebuyers in Oregon , including the Oregon Bond Residential Loan Program Cash Advantage , which includes a grant of 3% of the total loan amount that can be used for closing costs assistance.

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Redfin

APRIL 7, 2023

Get pre-approved for a mortgage My advice to first-time homebuyers is to find a good loan officer and get pre-approved, fully underwritten approval is best. – Robert Cenzer | Redfin Agent Don’t jump in and start house hunting until you have been pre-approved by your local bank or lender.

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Pre-approval Agents Pre-qualification Debt-to-income ratio 59

Marco Santarelli

MAY 30, 2025

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Lenders want to see that you can comfortably afford your mortgage payments. Don't just look at the interest rate; consider the fees, closing costs, and overall terms of the loan. Make sure to get pre-approved. Your rate will depend on your individual circumstances.

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Mortgages Debt-to-income ratio Fixed-rate mortgage Pre-approval 52

HomeLight

JUNE 27, 2022

You’re choosing from pre-set finishes and you may get to choose paint colors, types of flooring , fixture finishes, and appliance packages. These allow you to choose a few paint colors and add-ons, but you will mostly get pre-built features that the builder has already decided on. Negotiate with the builder.

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Redfin

AUGUST 3, 2023

Get pre-approved from a lender Getting pre-approved from a lender is crucial when buying a house in Georgia, as it offers several significant advantages. Buyers typically can review and sign various closing documents, including the mortgage agreement, title deed, and other necessary paperwork.

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Purchase and sale agreement Pre-approval Debt-to-income ratio Loans 59

Marco Santarelli

OCTOBER 6, 2023

Some lenders may require higher scores, especially for borrowers with other risk factors, such as a high debt-to-income ratio or a short credit history. Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage: Before you start house hunting, get pre-approved for a mortgage.

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VA loan FHA loan Pre-qualification Debt-to-income ratio 52

Redfin

JUNE 14, 2023

Get pre-approved from a lender Getting pre-approved from a lender is equally important with several significant benefits. By completing the closing process, buyers gain the assurance that the property’s title is clear, all necessary documentation is in order, and any outstanding financial obligations are settled.

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Redfin

MARCH 3, 2022

It’s recommended to get pre-approved before house hunting to give yourself a realistic idea of how much home you can afford ; however, a mortgage pre-approval doesn’t guarantee that your loan application will be approved. Delayed approvals from Homeowners Associations. How to remedy the situation.

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Closing Title search Purchase and sale agreement Title 63

Redfin

MAY 5, 2023

Get pre-approved from a lender One of the most important steps you can do for yourself is to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan. By obtaining pre-approval, you can get a clear idea of your budget for home shopping and make more informed decisions about which properties to consider.

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Purchase and sale agreement Pre-approval Seller disclosure Earnest money deposit 66

HomeLight

OCTOBER 29, 2021

Then you’ll have to pay closing costs, including appraisal and inspection costs (and don’t expect the seller to chip in — more on that later!). Plus, there’s the cost to move, furnish, and customize your new home. This is known as your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Make your best offer first.

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Inspection Loans VA loan Title 98

Lighter Side of Real Estate

AUGUST 5, 2020

Ask an agent to go see houses before getting pre-approved. There’s no greater let down than finding a house you love, and finding out you can’t be approved for a mortgage in the price range of that house. Besides, many sellers and their agents won’t even consider your offer if you don’t include a pre-approval letter.

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HomeLight

MARCH 17, 2021

While you’ll find lots of ways to ballpark your housing budget, the real determiner will be your debt-to-income ratio , or DTI. The lender wants to be sure you can pay back the mortgage plus any other debts you owe, so the bank will calculate your DTI. Those funds are due on closing day.

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