Answers You Can Actually Use

A bank offers only their own loan products. As an independent mortgage broker, I work with more than 220 wholesale lenders and shop the market on your behalf to find the rate and structure that genuinely fits your situation - not the one that is easiest for a single institution to close.

The process starts with a conversation. I review your income, assets, credit, and goals, then run your file through Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or FHA TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard for a full automated underwriting approval - not just a pre-qualification letter.

Yes. Self-employed borrowers qualify through documented income - typically two years of tax returns and a profit and loss statement. I also work with lenders who calculate self-employed income based on 3, 6, or 12 months of business bank statements - an option that works well for borrowers whose tax returns don't fully reflect their actual cash flow.

It depends on the loan type. FHA loans can go as low as 580 with 3.5% down. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum, though better scores unlock better rates. VA loans have no minimum set by the VA, though individual lenders set their own thresholds. I will tell you exactly where you stand and what options are available to you.

Not qualifying today does not mean not qualifying at all. Through one of our lending partners, we offer a complimentary credit repair program designed to identify and address the specific issues affecting your score. Many clients go from ineligible to approved in a matter of months. We will map out exactly what needs to improve and build a plan to get you there.

As little as 0% for VA and USDA loans, 3.5% for FHA, and 3% for some conventional programs. Down payment assistance programs may also be available depending on your income and location. A larger down payment can eliminate private mortgage insurance and improve your rate.

Pre-qualification is an estimate based on self-reported information - no documents verified. Pre-approval involves full document review and automated underwriting. In today's market, a pre-approval carries significantly more weight with sellers. I offer full pre-approvals, not estimates.

Typically 21 to 30 days from a completed application with all documents submitted. Having your file fully underwritten before you write an offer can accelerate the process significantly and strengthen your position with the seller.

Generally: two years of tax returns and W-2s, 30 days of pay stubs, two months of bank statements, a government-issued ID, and information on any current debts. Self-employed borrowers will also need a profit and loss statement. I provide a complete checklist specific to your situation at the start of the process.

It depends on how far down and what loan program you currently have. Some government-backed programs allow refinancing with limited equity. I will run the numbers and give you a clear assessment of whether refinancing makes financial sense before you commit to anything.

A cash-out refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a larger loan and gives you the difference in cash. It can make sense for home improvements, debt consolidation, or investment - but only when the rate, term, and long-term cost work in your favor. I run a full cost-benefit analysis before recommending it.

You are not legally required to have one, but navigating offers, negotiations, inspections, and contracts without representation carries significant risk. As both a licensed mortgage broker and real estate agent, I can guide you through the entire process under one roof.

A comparative market analysis - commonly called a CMA - compares recent sales of similar homes in the same area to establish a defensible price range. I provide CMAs as part of my buyer representation so you make offers grounded in data, not emotion.

Absolutely - and I strongly recommend it. Knowing your exact budget before you start looking saves time, reduces stress, and puts you in a position to move quickly when the right home comes up. In competitive markets, a fully underwritten pre-approval is often the deciding factor between offers.

No gaps, no dropped handoffs, no conflicting advice between advisors. Your financing and your offer strategy are coordinated from the start. You work with one person who is fully accountable for both sides of the transaction.

Not at all. If you already have a real estate agent you trust and are comfortable with, we encourage you to continue that relationship. My role is to serve your best interest - and that includes respecting the professional relationships you have already built. Many clients come to me for mortgage only, and that is perfectly fine. The option to work together on both sides is there if it makes sense for you, but it is never a requirement.

Yes - and it is some of the most rewarding work I do. First-time buyers benefit from having someone who takes the time to explain every step, every document, and every decision. I do not rush the process. I make sure you understand it.

Yes. I provide fully bilingual service in English and Spanish - not a translated summary, but the same depth of guidance, the same explanations, and the same access from start to close.

In many cases, yes. Permanent residents with a green card typically qualify for conventional and FHA loans under the same terms as citizens. Non-permanent residents and visa holders may also have options depending on the lender. I have experience navigating these situations and will give you a clear picture of what is available.

A 15-minute call is all it takes to know where you stand. No pressure, no commitment - just a straightforward conversation about your goals and what is possible. Reach me at 971-837-5296 or art@artchavez.com. Atención en Español.