FINANCING ROADMAP LINKS
- Getting Started
- Shop for a Loan
- Know the Numbers
- Get Pre-Approved
- Applications and Processing
- Funding
Getting Started
START A GREEN FILE
A Green File should contain all of your important financial documents. Regardless of the loan type, lenders will need information about you. Make copies of financial statements; bank accounts, investments, credit cards, auto loans, recent pay stubs and two years’ tax returns.
CHECK YOUR CREDIT RATING
Credit scores range between 400 and 800. 620 + is considered
"good". 680 + is considered "premium" and may possibly help get you
a lower interest rate.
Below you will find the contact
information for the 3 major credit reporting agencies to help you
determine your credit rating. Ask your lender how to improve your
credit score if you need to. Going forward, treat your credit like
gold.
Equifax http://www.equifax.com (800)
685-1111
Experian http://www.experian.com (800) 392-1122
Trans
Union http://www.transunion.com (800) 888-4213
SAVINGS & DEBT
If you are buying real estate, try to accumulate funds towards your down payment, closing costs (appraisal, miscellaneous fees, escrow, title insurance, etc.) and expenses such as inspections. Furthermore, try to pay down existing revolving and high interest rate debt like credit cards.
TOE THE LINE
Now is not a good time to change careers,
move your money around, or buy big ticket items. Lenders like
stability. So if you are considering any major changes, it pays to
meet with a lender and ask them how to proceed before you make any
changes!