From first call to front door, here's exactly what to expect.
The mortgage process doesn't have to be a mystery. Here's a clear, honest look at every step, so you always know what's happening, what's coming next, and what your job is at each stage.
First-time buyers, move-up buyers, and refinancers who want to know exactly what to expect at every step.
21 to 30 days from accepted offer to funded loan on a standard purchase. Refinances close in 2 to 4 weeks.
Zero. Consultation, pre-approval, and rate shopping across 80+ lenders are all free with no obligation.
Every mortgage journey is unique. This is the road most clients travel.
I'll be with you the whole way, translating underwriter-speak, pushing back on lender fees, and making sure nothing catches you off guard.
- 01Day 1, about 30 minutes
Free Consultation
We start with a conversation, not an application. I'll learn about your goals, timeline, and financial picture, then walk you through what's actually possible at today's rates. No pressure, no obligation, no credit pull.
What you'll need- •Nothing but your questions. This is a fit call, not a sales call.
Pro Tip from Mark"You don't need to have it all figured out before we talk. That's literally what I'm here for."
- 02Days 1 to 3
Pre-Approval
Once you're ready to move forward, I collect a few documents, run a soft credit review, and shop your profile across 80+ wholesale lenders to find your best rate and program fit. You'll get a real pre-approval letter, not a pre-qualification, so sellers and agents take your offer seriously.
What you'll need- •Government-issued photo ID
- •Two years of W-2s or tax returns if self-employed
- •Two most recent pay stubs
- •Two months of bank statements, all pages
- •Authorization for a soft credit check
Pro Tip from Mark"A real pre-approval reviews income, assets, and credit. If it took under 10 minutes and no documents, it isn't one."
- 03Weeks 1 to 8, at your pace
Shop & Write Offers
You tour homes with your agent while I stay in the background updating your pre-approval as needed, running quick payment scenarios, and prepping proof-of-funds and lender letters for offers. When you find the one, we sharpen the letter to match the listing agent's expectations.
What you'll need- •A buyer's agent you trust (I'm happy to introduce you to a few)
- •Clear price ceiling and target monthly payment
- •Updated bank statements if 30+ days have passed
Pro Tip from Mark"In Northern California, a strong lender letter is often the tie-breaker, not price alone. We tailor yours to each offer."
- 04Days 1 to 5 after acceptance
Loan Application & Disclosures
The moment your offer is accepted, we lock the rate, open escrow, order the appraisal, and send your initial disclosures. You'll e-sign the loan application and Loan Estimate so you can see every fee, in writing, up front.
What you'll need- •Signed purchase contract
- •Earnest money deposit receipt
- •Homeowners insurance quote (I'll refer you if needed)
Pro Tip from Mark"Read the Loan Estimate line by line with me. This is where hidden lender fees hide, and where we compare against your other quotes."
- 05Weeks 2 to 4
Processing, Appraisal & Underwriting
My processor gathers final conditions while the underwriter reviews income, assets, credit, and the property. The appraisal comes back and we address any conditions quickly. My job is to keep you off the phone with the lender, translate underwriter questions into plain English, and prevent surprises.
What you'll need- •Fast responses to condition requests (usually a same-day paystub or letter)
- •No new credit accounts, cars, or large deposits
Pro Tip from Mark"Don't buy the furniture yet. A new credit inquiry or a $5,000 deposit with no paper trail can pause the entire file."
- 06Closing week
Clear to Close, Sign, & Keys
You get the Closing Disclosure at least 3 business days before signing so there are no last-minute surprises. You'll sign with a mobile notary or at escrow, wire your down payment, and once the loan funds and records, the home is yours. I'll call you the day of recording, not just to say congratulations, but to make sure you know exactly what happens next.
What you'll need- •Valid ID for the notary
- •Wire instructions verified by phone (never trust email alone)
- •Proof of homeowners insurance in place at closing
Pro Tip from Mark"Always call escrow to verbally confirm wire instructions. Wire fraud is the #1 threat in real estate transactions."
Start with a conversation, not an application.
The first step is always a free 30-minute call. No credit pull, no paperwork, no pressure. Just a clear picture of your options.