Texas Mortgage Process

LONE STAR FINANCING

The MORTGAGE
PROCESS

Understanding the TX Mortgage Process

How the Home Loan Process Works in Texas

Here’s how the Texas mortgage loan process works for all loan types. A key step is credit review and employment verification, done after submitting the application, requiring documents like tax returns, W2s, pay stubs, and bank statements.

The mortgage application form requests details about you, the property, and your financial documents. Your mortgage lender will examine this information as well as your credit history, and you are then ready to move down the pipeline of the mortgage loan process.

We’ll collect documents from you for the underwriters, who may request additional ones during the process.

Let’s Simplify the Home Mortgage Lending Process:

Application

There are two forms: a short form on the website for basic info to start your loan and pull credit, and a long form that requires more details about you, the property, and your finances.

You’ll be assigned a loan officer to help with your application. Once your documents are compiled and prepared, the file goes to a Processor, who verifies income, employment, and assets, often requiring phone verification and documents from your employer. Depending on conditions, pre-approval typically takes 24-48 hours, and often, same-day approval is possible.

Documents needed at application:

  • Most Current Pay Stub (30 Days)
  • Two Months of Current Bank Statements
  • Copy of Driver’s License
  • Two Years Recent Tax Returns (All Pages)
  • Most Recent Quarterly Statement for Retirement/Investment Funds

Processing

Once your application and documents are prepared, the Processor will handle your file. They’ll verify income, employment, assets, and may need documents from your employer. If needed, a payoff will be ordered from your current mortgage holder, and a Title Search will verify liens. After verification, your file goes to the underwriter for approval.

Appraisal

The Appraiser determines the fair market value of the home by inspecting its condition, size, materials, and land. They’ll contact you for a refinance or the seller for a purchase. Appraisal costs for single-family homes are generally standard unless the property is rural or unusual in size. Payment is required upfront, as appraisers are third-party contractors.

Underwriting

The Underwriter is responsible for final loan approval. Before this, we obtain a conditional approval through an automated system. The underwriter then verifies your income, credit, cash reserves, and the property. If everything meets program guidelines, a conditional approval is issued, listing the remaining items needed to close the loan. It’s crucial that the underwriter has all necessary documentation, as their decision is critical. If additional info is requested, it’s essential to provide it promptly.

Lock Your Rate

Mortgage loan rates in Texas may change daily. To ensure that you receive the rate you were quoted, you may elect to lock in your rate by paying an up-front authorization fee. Your loan officer will educate you on the locking of the rate and provide all available options and loan programs.

Escrow and Title

A title company will hold the money and documents until all conditions are satisfied. Title work will be prepared, including a title exam to ensure the title to the property is clear. Other title documents such as the mortgage note and deed will be prepared.

Closing & Signing

Mortgage loans come with costs like application fees, points, title, insurance, and credit processing. A closing agent will send the documents and wire funds to the closing company. Be sure to budget for closing costs, which will be provided in a free estimate.

At the title company, you’ll sign documents, and remaining down payment and closing costs are due. Typical costs include appraisal fees, title exam, settlement fees, and application fees.

Funding & Title Transfer

When all funds are collected and the contract has been verified, the title is transferred and the purchase price funds are disbursed to the seller. After this step, you can take over the keys to your new home—congratulations!