The home-buying process can feel opaque — especially the first time. This roadmap breaks it into seven clear, sequential steps so you always know what's happening, what's next, and what's expected of you. Every step below is handled or guided by our Orlando-based, bi-lingual loan team (NMLS #2629561).
Step 1 — Get pre-approved (24 to 48 hours)
Before you tour a single home, get a verified pre-approval. We review your income, assets, and credit, then issue a pre-approval letter that tells sellers and agents you're ready to buy. This is not a rate-lock — it's proof that a lender has reviewed your file and you can finance the amount stated.
- Submit income, asset, and identity documents securely online.
- We verify and structure your loan across the right program.
- Receive your pre-approval letter — usually within 24 to 48 hours.
Step 2 — Define your budget & shop
With a real pre-approval in hand, you know your true price range — including taxes and insurance, not just principal and interest. Work with your real estate agent to tour homes within that range. Use our mortgage calculator to model full monthly payments on any property you're considering.
Step 3 — Make an offer & go under contract
Once you find the right home, your agent helps you craft a competitive offer. Your pre-approval letter accompanies the offer as proof of financing. When the seller accepts, you're under contract — and the clock starts on your inspection and appraisal periods.
Step 4 — Inspections & appraisal
Hire a licensed home inspector to evaluate the property's condition. In parallel, we order an independent appraisal to confirm the home's value supports the loan. If the appraisal comes in low or the inspection reveals issues, you can renegotiate, request repairs, or — in some cases — walk away using your inspection contingency.
Step 5 — Lock your rate & finalize
When your contract and appraisal are solid, we lock your interest rate and finalize your loan program (Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, or Non-QM). We'll confirm your final terms, monthly payment, and closing costs in writing. Nothing should be a surprise at this stage — if it is, ask.
Step 6 — Clear to close
We complete underwriting, verify final employment, and issue a "clear to close" — the green light that your loan is fully approved and ready to fund. We coordinate the closing date, time, and location with the title company and all parties. Three days before closing, you receive your Closing Disclosure, which details every dollar of the transaction.
Step 7 — Close & move in
At closing, you sign your final loan documents and bring any remaining down payment and closing costs. Once the loan funds and records, you receive the keys. That's it — you're a homeowner. From the first call to the closing table, On Target Mortgage keeps every milestone synchronized so you close on time.
How long does the whole process take?
Pre-approval: 24–48 hours. Contract to close: typically 30–45 days depending on the program, appraisal timeline, and contract terms. We close on time because we communicate proactively — in English and Spanish — at every step.
