THE MORTGAGE PROCESS
Clear Steps. Confident Decisions.
What happens from your first conversation to the closing table — and what you can do to keep everything on schedule.
STEP BY STEP
From consultation to keys
Consultation
A short conversation about your goals, budget, timeline and situation. Alex explains which loan programs make sense to compare and what you will need.
Pre-approval
You complete an application and provide income, asset and ID documents. Alex reviews credit and documents and issues a pre-approval decision — typically within 24 hours of a complete application.
Shop and make an offer
Tour homes with your agent. When you are ready to offer, Alex can provide a pre-approval letter written for that specific offer and speak with the listing agent about your file.
Loan application and disclosures
Once you have a signed contract, your loan is set up with the lender you choose. You receive a Loan Estimate within three business days showing your rate, payment and estimated costs. You decide when to lock your rate.
Processing and appraisal
The file is assembled, the appraisal is ordered, and title, insurance and (for condos) building documents are requested. Respond quickly to document requests to keep things moving.
Underwriting
An underwriter reviews the full file and issues an approval with conditions — usually a few final documents or explanations. Alex works through each condition with you.
Clear to close
When all conditions are met, the loan is clear to close. You receive your Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing to review final numbers.
Closing
Sign your documents with the title or closing agent, bring your verified funds, and get your keys. Your agent hears from Alex at every step, with your OK.
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
What you will typically need
Everyone
- Government-issued photo ID
- Two months of bank and asset statements (all pages)
- Information on any other properties you own
- Homeowners insurance contact once under contract
W-2 employees
- Pay stubs covering the most recent 30 days
- W-2s for the past two years
- Employment history for two years
- Explanation of any gaps or recent job changes
Self-employed
- Two years of personal and business tax returns, or
- 12–24 months of bank statements (bank statement loans)
- Proof of business ownership
- Year-to-date profit and loss if requested
Other situations
- Social Security, pension or retirement award letters
- Divorce decree or child support documents
- Current leases for rental income or DSCR loans
- Gift letter and donor documentation for gift funds
Your exact list depends on your loan program. Never send Social Security numbers or account documents through website forms — Alex will share a secure upload link.
DO
Keep your closing on track
- Respond to document requests within 24–48 hours
- Keep paying all bills on time
- Keep your funds in the same accounts and document large deposits
- Tell Alex right away about job, income or address changes
- Shop for homeowners insurance early — Florida coverage can take time
AVOID
Until after you close
- Opening new credit cards or financing furniture, cars or appliances
- Changing jobs or becoming self-employed without talking to Alex
- Moving large sums of money between accounts without a paper trail
- Co-signing for someone else
- Paying off or closing accounts without asking first
UNDERSTANDING COSTS
Where your money goes
Down payment
From 0% (VA, USDA) and 3% (conventional) up to 20% or more depending on the loan and property. Assistance programs may help.
Closing costs
Lender, appraisal, title, recording and Florida documentary stamp and intangible taxes — often 2%–5% of the price. Sellers may contribute.
Prepaids and escrow
Upfront homeowners insurance, prepaid interest and initial deposits for property taxes and insurance.
Monthly payment
Principal, interest, taxes, insurance, any mortgage insurance and HOA dues. Try the affordability calculator.
FAQ
Process questions
How long does pre-approval take?
Pre-approval decisions are typically made within 24 hours of a complete application with documents. A quick pre-qualification conversation can happen the same day.
Does a pre-approval hurt my credit?
A credit check can cause a small, temporary dip. Mortgage inquiries within a short shopping window are generally treated as one inquiry by credit scoring models.
When should I lock my rate?
Usually once you have a signed contract and the closing date is known. Alex will explain lock periods and options so you can decide.
What can delay a closing?
Slow document returns, appraisal issues, condo building reviews, insurance delays and changes to credit or employment. Starting early and responding quickly helps.
Is a pre-approval a loan commitment?
No. Final approval depends on underwriting, the appraisal, title and meeting all loan conditions.
STEP ONE
Start with a conversation
Tell Alex about your plans and he will map out your next steps, documents and timeline.
- No obligation
- Requesting information does not affect your credit
- Ready to apply now? Use the secure online application
By submitting, you agree to be contacted by phone, text or email about your inquiry. Message and data rates may apply; reply STOP to opt out of texts. Consent is not a condition of any loan. This is not a loan application — please do not include Social Security numbers, account numbers or financial documents. See our Privacy Policy.
Timelines are typical estimates and not guaranteed. Not a commitment to lend. Not all applicants qualify. Programs, rates, terms and availability may change without notice. All loans are subject to credit, income, asset and property approval. H. Alex El-Ali, NMLS #1513750, FL LO125697 | NEXA Mortgage, LLC, NMLS #1660690. Equal Housing Lender.
Ready To Get Started?
Your pre-approval is the first step.