How Can I Qualify for a Home Mortgage?

If you’re considering buying a home but are unsure about whether you’ll qualify for a mortgage, we can help. Norway Savings Bank has been serving our communities since 1866, so we know a thing or two about what goes into the mortgage process. In this article, we’ll share certain steps you can take to increase your likelihood of qualifying for a home mortgage. Ready to begin? Read on. 

To learn more about mortgages, read What Is a Home Mortgage? 

9 Steps to Qualify for a Mortgage

Qualifying for a mortgage is a crucial step in the journey to homeownership. Lenders carefully assess a number of factors to determine your eligibility for a home loan. Understanding what lenders look for and taking proactive steps can greatly increase your chances of qualifying for a mortgage. 

Step 1: Check Your Credit Score and Improve It

Start by checking your credit history, it plays a significant role in qualifying for a home mortgage. To obtain a free credit report, visit annualcreditreport.com, the only official website authorized by the U.S. government to provide free credit reports from the three major credit bureaus. Be sure to review your credit report for any errors or issues that need to be addressed. To improve your credit score, pay bills on time, reduce credit card balances, and avoid taking on new debt. Aim for a score of 700 or higher to increase your chances of qualifying for a favorable mortgage. 

Step 2: Evaluate Your Financial Situation

Assess your financial health to determine what you can afford for a mortgage and whether you meet the lender’s requirements. To start, calculate your monthly income and recurring expenses. Then, consider your down payment options and how much you can comfortably allocate towards a mortgage payment each month. Lenders typically prefer a debt-to-income ratio (your monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income) below 43%, so aim to keep your debts manageable.

Step 3: Save for a Down Payment and Closing Costs

Start saving for a down payment, which is typically a percentage of the home’s purchase price. A higher down payment can lead to better loan terms and lower monthly payments. Additionally, keep in mind that you will need to cover closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount. Saving diligently for these expenses is essential to qualifying for a mortgage.

Step 4: Research Loan Programs and Choose the Right One

Familiarize yourself with the different mortgage loan programs available, such as conventional loans, USDA loans, and State Housing programs. Each program has its own requirements and benefits, catering to specific borrower profiles. Evaluate the eligibility criteria, down payment requirements, and interest rates associated with each program. Select the one that best suits your financial situation and goals.

Step 5: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Obtaining a pre-approval letter from a lender adds credibility to your home-buying journey. Gather the necessary documentation, including proof of income, tax returns, bank statements, and employment history, and submit them to the lender for evaluation. The lender will assess your financial information and issue a pre-approval letter, if you’re approved, indicating the loan amount you qualify for. This strengthens your position when making offers on homes.

Step 6: Shop for a Home Within Your Budget

With your pre-approval in hand, start searching for homes within your budget. Work with a reputable real estate agent who understands your needs and financial situation. Stay within the price range specified in your pre-approval letter to ensure you can secure financing for your desired property.

Step 7: Complete the Mortgage Application Process

Once you’ve found a home and negotiated the purchase price, it’s time to complete the mortgage application process. Work closely with your chosen lender to provide any additional documentation they require. Be prepared to provide details about the property, your employment, income, and assets. Cooperate with the lender to ensure a smooth and timely processing of your mortgage application.

Step 8: Undergo Property Appraisal and Loan Approval

The lender will arrange for a professional appraisal of the property to verify its value. They’ll also review your application, credit history, and documentation to make a lending decision. If everything meets the lender’s requirements, they’ll issue a loan approval, dependent upon satisfying any remaining conditions.

Step 9: Close the Mortgage Loan

The final step is the closing, where you sign the necessary legal documents and complete the transfer of ownership. Review the Closing Disclosure provided by the lender, which outlines the final terms of the loan. Arrange for the required funds, including the down payment and closing costs, to be available. Attend the closing appointment, sign the documents, and provide the necessary payments. 

Congratulations! You are now a homeowner.

Putting It All Together

Qualifying for a mortgage requires careful planning, financial responsibility, and understanding the lender’s requirements. By checking and improving your credit score, evaluating your financial situation, saving for a down payment, and choosing the right loan program, you can position yourself for mortgage approval. 

Obtaining a pre-approval, shopping within your budget, and completing the mortgage application process will help you secure your dream home. With these steps, you can go through the process of qualifying for a home mortgage with confidence—and increase your chances of success.

Norway Savings Bank MortgageGO

At Norway Savings Bank, we understand every homeowner has unique needs and circumstances. With Norway Savings Bank MortgageGO, you can find a mortgage that’s just right for you.  Not only will you get competitive rates, you’ll get a supportive dedicated local mortgage professional that will help you every step of the way and technology that makes applying on the go easy. So let us help you find the right mortgage for you! Check out MortgageGO or contact a mortgage loan officer.