Before we can grant you a loan, we of course would like to make sure you can repay it. Your finances will be reviewed like never before, which could make this experience somewhat overwhelming - especially for first-timers. There are many questions we'll need to ask, and paperwork to fill out and sign before you even know if the house you have your eye on can be yours.

Understandably, we’ll need to consider your personal finances very carefully before making a decision. Among other things, we’ll need to know:

• your credit history and explanations for any derogatory items
• your employment history and gross income each month
• your monthly payments for credit cards and other loans
• your assets (bank and retirement accounts, other property owned, etc.)
• the amount of money you plan to use as a down payment (if purchasing the home)

Before you begin looking or getting all excited about a great house you have found on the market, take some time to let us prequalify you for a home loan. This may save you a lot of time and trouble when house-hunting, and will make you a more attractive buyer when you put an offer on a home.

The fact is, you’ll be better prepared to offer a respectable down payment when you know exactly how much house you can afford. Putting in some research, preparation and time to understand your financial circumstances prior to buying a house will allow you to negotiate a better deal and possibly make the home buying process move along more smoothly.