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What Should I Do Before House Hunting?
Sep 3, 2024
Doug Hanes, VP, Market Development Officer
ProSpeak

Are you thinking about buying a house, but don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. This is often the biggest purchase most people will make in their lifetime. Instead of taking it all on yourself, work with a team that is trained in the process and understands the ins and outs of home financing. To truly be helpful, you have to be able to trust who you are working with, which is why it’s important you choose a bank that is concerned about you, your life and your goals. 

Step 1: Make an appointment.

This process is all about getting what’s best for you, and the first step is finding a bank that will partner with you on this journey.

Step 2: Have an initial meeting.

During the first meeting, you typically go over the documents you brought with you in addition to your financial goals and housing needs. Oftentimes, banks will provide you a list up front that shares all the documents you can bring in. This will help the conversation be more meaningful, and you can walk away with actionable items.

Step 3: Underwrite request.

It’s important for banks to make sure they are only lending money out to individuals that can afford to make the payments. The lending team will underwrite your loan based on your documentation and information provided to ensure all regulations and policies are met before issuing a pre-qualification letter. This process typically takes less than 48 hours.

Step 4: Begin house hunting.

It’s time to really dive into searching for your dream home. Follow these tips and tricks:

  • Stay within the pre-qualification limits
  • Don’t change jobs
  • Don’t open or close any personal loans or credit cards
  • Keep in contact with your lender
  • As soon as an offer is accepted, reach out to your lender

Step 5: Start the formal mortgage process.

Congratulations! You’ve made it to an application with your bank. The process will go fast. Your banker and realtor will help you along the way to finish everything up and get you to move-in day. 


Community State Bank

Phone: (260) 318-4213

Email: dough@csbemail.com

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