HomeHow it works
How it works
From the first call to closing, and after.
What working with Home Express looks like, step by step.
Before you apply
A conversation about your options and what to expect, so there are no surprises.
Read the Guarantee →Application, documents and pre-approval
You start by completing the application online. Once you apply, you get a secure link to upload documents, then a full list of any additional items Joe needs and a written outline of each step. Please don't send documents by email; they go through the secure website.
Joe goes through your income, assets, credit and debts with you, so you shop knowing where you stand. He issues the pre-approval letter once he has reviewed your documents and an underwriting decision, automated or manual, has come back. A pre-approval is a conditional yes, not a final approval. The home itself, the appraisal when there is one, and final underwriting still have to clear.
What a pre-approval is →Shopping with your agent
Your agent hears how things are moving at the same time you do.
Processing and underwriting
Once you're under contract, or once you've applied for a refinance, the file goes to the lender's underwriter. Underwriting usually comes back with conditions: a request for another document or an explanation. That's a routine part of the process, not a sign of trouble.
Appraisal
When the loan calls for one, the lender orders an appraisal to check the home's value.
Updates the whole way
You won't be left wondering whether no news is good news. You get personal status updates on approval progress through closing.
Clear to close
When every condition has been met, the lender issues the clear to close.
The Closing Disclosure
Before closing you receive the Closing Disclosure, with the loan's final terms and costs. It comes in time to read it and compare it with your Loan Estimate. It's worth reading, not just signing.
Closing
You sign with the closing attorney or title company, and the loan closes. In Georgia, a closing attorney conducts it.
After closing
Call about your mortgage, your home or your next move, for as long as you own the home.
In writing
The Home Express Mortgage Guarantee
What Joe promises, in his own words.
- Before you apply, clear understanding of options and expectations - once you apply, you get a full list of any additional items I need from you and a written outline of each step, so no surprises.
- I answer every call, text or email.
- You get personal status updates on approval progress through closing.
- Everyone in your transaction, you, your agent, the settlement company and the lender, is updated at the same time. - That's Five Star Communication.
- If I can't do something I will let you know where to go.
- Our relationship does not end at closing. Call me about your mortgage, your home or your next move for as long as you own the home.
How we communicate
Five Star Communication
Everyone in your transaction gets the same update at the same time: you, your agents, the settlement company and the lender. Updates go out by email and phone. Nobody is the last to hear. Status is shared with your OK.