Earnest money deposit Pre-approval VA loan 
Redfin
JUNE 27, 2025
Not getting pre-approved for a home loan before starting your search A common mistake for first-time homebuyers is jumping into the search without first getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Options like FHA loans , VA loans , and USDA loans offer low down payments and more lenient credit guidelines.
Redfin
MARCH 26, 2025
It protects the buyers earnest money and limits their financial risk if their financing falls through. Even if youve been pre-approved , things like a low appraisal, a job loss, or changes in your credit can derail the loan process. Unusual homes can cause appraisal challenges that impact loan approval.
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Redfin
JULY 30, 2025
Here are the minimum credit scores needed to qualify for certain loans: Conventional loans: 620-660 Jumbo loans: 700 FHA loans: 500-580 VA loans: no requirement USDA loans: typically 620, but can be lower 8. Several loan options, such as FHA or VA loans, only require a down payment of 3.5%
Rochester Real Estate
NOVEMBER 5, 2015
For example, if you use a bank for your loan you may already have a pre-existing relationship with them and they sometimes offer very competitive interest rates. Have you tried calling a bank on a Saturday night to get a pre-approval letter? The waiting period will vary based on the type of loan and the lender.
Redfin
AUGUST 29, 2024
Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) Another major factor that a lender will consider when approving your mortgage loan is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). FHA loan: These loans are backed by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and primarily help low-to-moderate-income borrowers who are less likely to qualify for conventional loans.
HomeLight
MARCH 2, 2023
Consider factors such as how long you plan to be in the area, if you have steady employment, and if you have enough money saved for not just the down payment, but for closing costs , maintenance, property taxes, and more. Loans are between 3%-3.5% Special programs VA loans: For veterans, service members, and surviving spouses.
HomeLight
MARCH 6, 2023
Consider factors such as how long you plan to be in the area, if you have steady employment, and if you have enough money saved for not just the down payment, but for closing costs , maintenance, property taxes, and more. Loans are between 3%-3.5% Find the FHA loan limit for homes in the county you are looking to purchase here.
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