FAQ
Questions, answered.
Straight answers to the things people actually ask me.
Getting Started
A mortgage loan officer helps you figure out how much you can borrow, finds a loan that fits your goals, and guides your file from application to closing. I translate the confusing parts into plain English, gather what lenders need, and keep things moving so you're never guessing what happens next.
It's simple. Take the 60-second quiz on this site or just call me. The quiz doesn't pull your credit, it just helps me understand your goals. From there we talk, I lay out your real options in plain English, and we build a plan together. No pressure and no obligation.
In most cases you don't pay me a separate fee out of pocket. My compensation is typically built into the loan, and I'll always show you how it works before you commit. My goal is matching you to the right loan, and I'll explain every cost clearly so nothing is hidden.
I have access to 100+ lenders across the market. That lets me shop your file to find a lender whose guidelines fit your situation, rather than selling you the one product a single bank happens to carry. More options usually means a better fit.
The Process & Timeline
A pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on info you share. A pre-approval goes further, with the lender verifying your credit, income, and assets, so it carries more weight with sellers. Think of pre-qualification as a starting point and pre-approval as the stronger, documented version you bring to an offer.
Usually recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank or asset statements, and ID. If you're self-employed, I'll also look at business returns. The cleaner and more organized these are, the faster we move. Don't stress about gathering it perfectly. I'll give you an exact checklist so nothing's a guessing game.
It varies by loan type, your documents, and the property, so I won't promise an exact number. Once you're under contract, the process often takes several weeks. The two biggest things that keep your timeline on track are getting pre-approved early and sending me documents quickly when I ask.
After pre-approval, you make an offer and go under contract. Then comes your full application, an appraisal to confirm the home's value, and underwriting review. You may get a few follow-up document requests. Once underwriting signs off, you're cleared to close, sign the paperwork, and get the keys. I guide you through each step.
Money & Credit
Less than most people think. Many programs allow as little as 3% down, FHA runs around 3.5%, and qualified veterans may put nothing down. The old 20% rule is a myth for most buyers, especially first-time buyers. I'll show you the real numbers, including cash to close, so you can plan with facts.
There's no single cutoff. Different loan programs have different guidelines, and FHA can work with lower scores while many conventional programs look a bit higher. As your loan officer, I match your credit to a lender whose rules fit. If your score needs work, I'll give you a clear, realistic plan to improve it.
Closing costs are the fees to finalize your loan, like lender fees, title, an appraisal, and prepaid taxes and insurance. They commonly run roughly 2% to 5% of the price. Buyers usually pay them, but sellers or lenders can offer credits. I'll show you the full picture so there are no surprises.
PMI, or private mortgage insurance, is a fee you may pay on a conventional loan when you put down less than 20%. It protects the lender, not you. The good news is it usually isn't forever. As you build enough equity, you can often request to have it removed, which lowers your payment.
Working With Niko
A bank offers only its own products. As your loan officer, I have access to 100+ lenders across the market and shop your loan across them. That means I match you to the right loan instead of selling the only one a single bank carries, and you get a real person who explains everything.
Often, yes. A no from one lender isn't always the end of the story. Different lenders have different guidelines, and sometimes a file just needs to be structured differently. Let me take a second look, tell you honestly what's possible, and build a plan, whether that's now or a clear path to get there.
No. You're free to choose your own lender, and it's smart to compare. Your agent's referral may be great, but it's your loan and your money. I'm happy to give you a second look so you can decide with real options in hand. The right fit for you matters more than anyone's referral.
Call or text me, fill out the quiz, or send a message through this site. I pride myself on quick, straight answers, not a phone tree. During a live deal I stay in close contact so you always know where things stand. If I'm with a client, I'll get back to you as soon as I can.
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Last updated: June 5, 2026