Nine short videos, one for each step between your application and your keys, so you always know where your loan stands and what comes next.
Before the house hunting begins, getting pre-approved sets you up for success. We review your income, assets, and credit to determine how much home you can comfortably afford, then put it in writing — so you can shop with confidence and show sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer. Think of this as laying the foundation for everything that follows.
Next: Initial Disclosures Sent
This is your loan's official starting line. Within three business days of your application, we send your initial disclosures — including the Loan Estimate that outlines your projected rate, monthly payment, and closing costs. Review them carefully and return your signatures promptly; the sooner they're back, the sooner your loan moves forward.
Next: Processing
With your application in hand, your loan now moves into processing. Your loan processor gathers and organizes everything your file needs — income and asset documentation, verifications, title work, and more — and orders your appraisal. Much of this happens behind the scenes, and responding quickly to any requests is the best way to keep your loan on schedule.
Next: Appraisal Ordered
We've ordered a professional appraisal of the property. A licensed appraiser evaluates the home to determine its current market value — an important step that helps confirm your loan amount and protects everyone involved. Once the report comes back, your file continues on toward underwriting.
Next: Underwriting
Your file is now with our underwriting team, where the careful review happens. An underwriter verifies your income, assets, credit, and the property appraisal to confirm everything meets your loan's guidelines. You may be asked for a few extra documents along the way — that's a normal part of the process. Responding quickly is the best way to keep things on track.
Next: Your Loan is Approved
Big news — underwriting has approved your loan. In most cases this is a conditional approval, meaning a few remaining items or documents may still be needed before closing. We'll tell you exactly what's left so we can clear those conditions together. You've cleared the biggest hurdle in the journey.
Next: Initial Closing Disclosure
You've received your initial Closing Disclosure, which lays out the final terms of your loan — your rate, monthly payment, and the exact amount due at closing. By law, you have at least three business days to review it before signing your final paperwork, so this milestone starts an important countdown. Compare it to your original Loan Estimate and reach out with any questions before the finish line.
Next: Clear to Close
This is the moment everyone waits for: every condition has been met and your loan is officially cleared to close. There's nothing left for underwriting to review — we're now coordinating the date, time, and place for you to sign. Closing day is in sight.
Next: Funded
Congratulations — your loan has funded. The funds have been disbursed and your loan is complete. Whether it's the keys to a new home or the savings from a refinance, it's officially yours. Welcome home, and thank you for letting us be part of the journey.
The Lighthouse app shows every step of your own loan as it happens, with a push notification the moment one is cleared. Apply there and the videos above become your status bar.
Wondering how this applies to you? A licensed local advisor answers for free — no obligation, and no impact to your credit.