The number one question for any potential homebuyer or someone new to the mortgage process is “what does this process entail?”. The following is a simple outline to give you an idea of the process and help you understand what to expect as you embark on your home buying journey!

STEP 1 – BE PREPARED

Having the following information on hand before meeting with your mortgage professional will help them determine what you qualify for and help them determine the best mortgage product for you:

• Contact information for your employer and your employment history
• Proof of address and your address history
• Government-issued photo ID with your current address
• Proof of income for your mortgage application
• Down payment proof (amount and source)
• Savings and investments proof
• Details of current debts and other financial obligations

STEP 2 – GET PRE-APPROVED

One of the best things any potential homeowner can do when starting the home buying process is to get pre-approved. Mortgage pre-approval requires submission and verification of your financial history and can help you determine your price range, understand the monthly mortgage payment associated with that price range and provide the mortgage rate for your first term.

It is important to note that pre-approval does not mean that a lender has fully reviewed your documentation and you may still need the approval of a mortgage insurer. However, it does have a lot of benefits that can give you a “leg-up” in your search!

BENEFITS OF PRE-APPROVAL

Getting pre-approved not only makes the search easier by helping to determine your price range and budget, but pre-approval also guarantees the interest rate for 90-120 days while you search for that perfect home. Plus, the rate will automatically be adjusted down with any market reductions. Another benefit to pre-approval is that, when it comes time to purchase, pre-approval lets the seller know that securing financing should not be an issue. This is extremely beneficial in competitive markets where lots of offers may be coming in.

Quick Tip: Being entirely candid with your home-buying team throughout the process will be vital! Hidden debt or buying a big-ticket item during your 90-120 day pre-approval can change the amount you are able to borrow. It is best to refrain from any major purchases (such as a new car) or life changes (such as changing jobs) until after closing and you have the keys to your new home!

STEP 3 – HIRE A REALTOR

In today’s competitive real estate market, it can be very difficult to acquire property WITHOUT the help of a realtor. One of the reasons realtors are integral to the home buying process is that they can provide access to properties that never even make it to the MLS website. Realtors also gain access to information about homes that may come onto the market before a listing is even signed.

Most importantly though, a realtor understands the ins-and-outs of the home buying process and can tell you how to be successful in your endeavors to purchase a home by guiding you through the process from the first viewing to having your bid accepted.

STEP 4 – SHOP THE MARKET & MAKE AN OFFER

Once you have found the property that meets your needs, you’ll put in an offer that’ll be accepted or countered. This may go back and forth until you reach an acceptable price with the vendor. To start home shopping today, check out the listings on Rew.ca!

STEP 5 – OFFER IS ACCEPTED

Once your offer is accepted with the condition of financing, you will need to do a few things to finalize the sale:

• Ask for a realtor intro between your mortgage professional and realtor.
• An appraisal may be required, which will be determined and arranged by your mortgage professional.
• Send in any remaining documents required for financing (income confirmation, down payment confirmation, etc).
• Arrange a home inspection.
• Receive the lender’s approval on property and final approval letter.

STEP 6 – REMOVE CONDITIONS

At this point, your financing is in place and you’re ready to proceed with the purchase of the property.

STEP 7 – LAWYER’S OFFICE

You’ll be asked to provide any money that’s to be used as your down payment, which is not already on deposit with your realtor. Typically, you’ll go in 1-2 days prior to the completion date.

Before you start on your home buying journey, be sure to take advantage of the expert advice that DLC Mortgage Professionals can offer. As experts in mortgages, brokers can help walk you through the process and find you the best mortgage product to suit your unique needs! The best part? It won’t cost you a penny! Mortgage professionals are paid out by the lender when they register a new contract. Therefore, all that matters is finding YOU, the client, the best possible mortgage.