The Financing Process
Demystifying Home Loans
The home loan process can feel overwhelming. By collaborating with a trusted lender and remaining informed through every step of the process, from pre-approval to closing, you can have a significantly more comfortable experience. You’ll want to consult with a mortgage specialist (or two) to find a professional who you are confident will provide you with the best care.
To get an idea of what to expect, review the following home loan process steps.
Step One:
Get Pre-Approval
Before you start looking for a home to buy, it’s wise and proactive to meet with a lender to get pre-approved for a loan amount. Offers accompanied by a pre-approval letter are stronger and will stand out, especially when the seller is receiving multiple offers.
To gain pre-approval, your preferred lender will gather information about income, assets, and debts to help determine how much you can borrow. This includes gathering a credit report, W-2 forms, pay stubs, federal tax returns, and recent bank statements.
There are a variety of home loan programs offering different advantages depending on your unique needs and preferences. Your preferred lender can go over the specifics of each to ensure you find a loan option that best aligns with your needs.
Estimate Your Monthly Payment
Estimate your mortgage payment, including the principal and interest, taxes, insurance, HOA, and Private Mortgage Insurance.
Price
Annual Tax
Loan Term (Years)
Down Payment %
Interest Rate %
Monthly HOA
Monthly Insurance
$3,198.20
Estimated Monthly Payment
Principal
$2,398.20
(75.0%)Taxes
$500.00
(15.6%)Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
$0.00
(0.0%)HOA
$100.00
(3.1%)Insurance
$200.00
(6.3%)
Step Two:
Find the best loan
Collaborating with a top-notch local loan officer will ensure you have access to competitive rates and programs that best fit your individual needs. Take the first step by completing this form to get connected today!
Step Three:
Application and processing
When you find the perfect property and your offer is accepted, your lender will help you complete a full mortgage loan application, discuss down payment options, and explain any related fees.
Then, your application is submitted for processing where the documents are reviewed. Your lender will also order a home appraisal and a property title search.
The next part of the application process involves sending everything to an underwriter who will review and approve the entire loan package to make sure it meets all compliance regulations.
It is not unusual to receive requests for additional documentation or clarification during this phase of the application process.
Step Four:
Signing and finalizing the deal
Once your loan is approved, you’ll need to set up homeowners insurance.
Your documents will be sent to the title company and the closing will be scheduled for you to sign the necessary paperwork and pay any additional costs to complete the purchase of your new home.
After the loan goes through the required recording process, the purchase is complete, and you officially own your new home!
Meet Our Mortgage Partners
Your trusted experts in navigating home financing with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Tom Buslee
Senior Partner | Tradition Mortgage
– Denise Specht, President, Education MN
More Than a Mortgage Company
Here to help with Life’s Unplanned Challenges:
About Tom
Tom Buslee is one of the founding members of Tradition Mortgage. He prides himself on a “client for life” philosophy—providing thorough reviews and sound advice on financing options. With decades of experience, Tom and his team ensure a smooth, efficient financing process supported by Tradition's unmatched resources and professionalism.
Tom lives on Lake Marion in Lakeville with his three children—boy/girl twins Max & Drew, and daughter Elliet. Outside of work, Tom enjoys time with family and the occasional round of golf.
Meet the Team
Thinking about buying a home?
For questions about loans in process, contact:
jeff.kabat@traditionllc.com | (612) 819-4400
chris.keller@traditionllc.com | (952) 252-4704
maria.ryan@traditionllc.com | (952) 252-4700
Contact Tom today for a no-cost, no-obligation mortgage analysis!
