10 steps to buying a home
Buying a home has a lot of moving parts. Here is the order to take them in, from working out your budget to getting the keys.
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- Direct, licensed mortgage lender
- NMLS #103098
- Equal Housing Lender
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Fidelity Residential · NMLS #103098 · Equal Housing Lender
- Direct, licensed lenderNMLS #103098. Check our licences on NMLS Consumer Access.
- A licensed loan officerA real person reviews your file and answers your questions.
- Plain-English guidesShort answers to the questions borrowers ask most.
- Apply online or by phoneStart a quote, apply online or call 732-686-9999.
Before you look
Work out what you can afford
Look at your income, debts, savings and the monthly payment you are comfortable with. Our payment calculator can help.
Check your credit reports
Get your reports from all three credit bureaus and fix any errors early. See understanding your credit.
Gather your documents
Pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, bank statements and identification. See the document checklist.
Talk to a lender and get pre-approved
A licensed loan officer reviews your credit, income and savings and explains the programs that fit. A pre-approval is not a final approval.
Finding the home
Choose a loan
Fixed or adjustable, the length of the loan and the program. See choosing a loan program.
Find the home
The fun part. Stay within the price range you set, and keep your finances steady while you look.
Make an offer
Put every agreement in the written contract, including any inspection and financing conditions.
From offer to closing
Apply and lock your rate
Complete your application and lock your rate for long enough to reach your closing date, with room for delays.
Appraisal, inspections and underwriting
The lender orders the appraisal; you arrange the home inspection. Answer any underwriting requests promptly.
Close
Review your Closing Disclosure against your Loan Estimate, plan for your closing costs, and sign. See our guide to closing
Ready to take the first step?
Get a quote, apply online, or talk it through with a licensed loan officer.
This page is general information, not a commitment to lend. Programs, terms and eligibility depend on credit, income, property and underwriting review and are subject to change without notice.