A Home Buyer’s Roadmap

Editorial update: November 3, 2026. Original publication date retained below the headline.

1. Plan your financing

Start with your goals, budget and property location. Your loan officer can explain documentation and available options. A conversation or public inquiry is not a preapproval; any preapproval requires the applicable review and remains subject to its conditions.

2. Search and make an offer

Work with your real estate professional to evaluate properties and offer terms. Financing depends on both the borrower and the property, and the appraisal or project review can affect the outcome. Consumers may choose any lender and any real estate brokerage.

3. Complete the application and underwriting

Use the secure application process your loan officer provides. Supply requested documentation, review disclosures and coordinate appraisal, title, insurance and other requirements. A home inspection is separate from the lender’s appraisal. Conditions may need to be satisfied before closing.

4. Review the final disclosures and close

Review the Closing Disclosure, including final loan terms, costs and cash to close, and ask about differences from the Loan Estimate. Estimates can change subject to applicable disclosure and tolerance requirements. Complete the required signing, funding and recording steps; your settlement and real estate professionals will coordinate possession and keys.

Your next step

Send an inquiry to connect with a mortgage professional. Do not place account numbers, Social Security numbers or financial documents in a public contact form.

Start a mortgage inquiry or contact our team. This article is educational and is not a commitment to lend.