Buy a Home

Yes! A traditional home equity loan isn't your only option for accessing the equity you've built in your home. Depending on your financial goals, one of these alternatives may be a better fit:

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
A HELOC gives you flexible access to your home's equity instead of providing one lump sum. You can borrow only what you need during the draw period and pay interest only on the amount you've used. It's a popular option for home improvement projects, ongoing expenses, or unexpected costs.

Cash-Out Refinance
A cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage with a new one for a higher amount, allowing you to receive the difference in cash. This option may make sense if you're looking to refinance your mortgage while also using some of your home's equity.

Personal Loan
If you'd rather not use your home as collateral, a personal loan may be worth considering. Personal loans typically have a faster application process and don't require home equity, making them a good option for smaller expenses or projects.

Every homeowner's situation is different. Our mortgage team can help you compare your options, explain how each loan works, and find the solution that best fits your goals.

The fastest way to buy a home is to be prepared before you start shopping. While paying cash can speed up the process, most buyers can move quickly with the right planning and a strong lending team.

Here are a few ways to help make the home buying process go as smoothly as possible:

Get pre-approved before you start looking.
A mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you're a serious buyer. Having your financial documents ready can also help speed up the loan process.

Work with a local real estate agent.
An experienced local agent can help you find the right home, navigate the market, and move quickly when the right opportunity comes along.

Look for move-in-ready homes.
Homes that don't require major repairs or renovations often have fewer delays and can lead to a faster closing.

Respond quickly throughout the process.
Returning requested documents, reviewing paperwork promptly, and staying in touch with your lender can help keep your closing on track.

Buying a home doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Our mortgage team is here to answer your questions, guide you through each step, and help you get into your new home as quickly as possible.

Buying a home involves a few important documents from the time you're pre-approved to the day you close. While every purchase is different, here are some of the documents you may need along the way:

To get pre-approved:

• Government-issued photo ID
• Social Security number
• One month's worth of pay stubs
• W-2s from the last two years
• Tax returns from the last two years (if you're self-employed)
• Your two most recent bank statements

During the home buying process:

• A signed purchase agreement
• Proof of homeowners insurance
• A home appraisal (ordered by your lender)
• A home inspection report (recommended)

At closing:
You'll review and sign your final loan documents, including your Closing Disclosure, promissory note, and mortgage paperwork before receiving the keys to your new home.

Our mortgage team will let you know exactly what documents are needed throughout the process, so you'll always know what comes next.

Absolutely! Buying a home is a big milestone, and you don't have to figure it out on your own. 

Here's what you can expect:

1. Meet with a Mortgage Lender
We'll get to know your goals, answer your questions, and help you understand your financing options.

2. Get Pre-Approved
We'll review your financial information and provide a mortgage pre-approval so you know your budget before you start house hunting.

3. Find the Right Home
Once you're pre-approved, you can work with your real estate agent to find a home that fits your needs and your budget.

4. Complete Your Mortgage Application
After your offer is accepted, we'll help you finalize your application, order the appraisal, and guide you through the underwriting process.

5. Close on Your New Home
We'll keep you informed every step of the way until closing day, when you'll sign the final paperwork and receive the keys to your new home.

Buying a home doesn't have to be overwhelming. You'll have our mortgage experts by your side to answer questions, explain each step, and help make the process as smooth as possible.

Get Started

The home buying process looks a little different for everyone, but many buyers purchase a home within a few months. Once your offer is accepted, closing typically takes about 30 to 45 days, depending on your loan, the appraisal, inspections, and any additional requirements.

A few things can affect your timeline, including:

• Getting pre-approved before you start shopping
• How quickly you find the right home
• The local housing market
• The appraisal and home inspection process
• How quickly requested documents are provided during underwriting

Our mortgage team will work closely with you throughout the process to help keep everything moving and make your home buying experience as smooth as possible.

 

Getting pre-approved for a home loan is one of the best first steps in the home buying process. A mortgage pre-approval helps you understand how much home you may be able to afford and shows sellers you're a serious buyer when it's time to make an offer.

Here's how to get started:

Schedule a conversation with an Embers mortgage lender.
We'll take the time to learn about your homeownership goals, answer your questions, and explain your financing options.

Gather your financial documents.
You'll typically need documents like recent pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and tax returns (if applicable) so we can review your financial picture.

Complete your mortgage application.
Your lender will review your income, assets, credit history, and other financial information to determine how much you may qualify to borrow.

Receive your mortgage pre-approval.
Once everything has been reviewed, you'll receive a pre-approval letter outlining your estimated loan amount. This gives you confidence while house hunting and lets sellers know you're prepared to move forward.

Getting pre-approved doesn't lock you into a loan, but it does give you a clear understanding of your budget before you start shopping for a home.

Meet with a Mortgage Lender