reMarkable Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a fixed-rate and an adjustable-rate mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage has a constant interest rate throughout the loan term, while an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) has an interest rate that may change periodically based on market conditions.

How do I know how much I can borrow?

Your borrowing capacity depends on various factors, including your income, credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and the type of loan you are applying for. Our team can help you assess your financial situation to determine the right amount.

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

Typically, you’ll need to provide proof of income, tax returns, bank statements, identification, and information about your debts and assets. Don't worry our team will walk you through exactly what's needed for your unique situation, step by step.

How long does the mortgage approval process take?

Every borrower’s path to success looks a little different. Depending on your loan type and financial situation, approval can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The good news? Our team works hard to keep things moving quickly and efficiently so you can focus on celebrating your next step — homeownership.

“I work freelance and my income isn’t the same every month — can I still qualify for a mortgage?”

Absolutely. More and more people are self-employed, freelance, or 1099 these days, and lenders have programs designed exactly for you. Instead of just looking at one paycheck, we take a bigger picture view of your income to show stability. You may be surprised at how many options you actually have. Let’s walk through your situation together — give us a quick call and we’ll map out a plan for you.

“How much money do I really need upfront — beyond just the down payment?”

Great question — because it’s never just the down payment. You’ll want to budget for things like closing costs, insurance, and inspections, but here’s the good news: there are ways to lower those costs, and sometimes even programs that help cover part of them. Before you assume it’s out of reach, let’s crunch the real numbers together. A quick conversation could show you it’s more affordable than you think.

“If I already have debt, like student loans or credit cards, is buying a home still realistic for me?”

Yes — having debt doesn’t automatically take homeownership off the table. Lenders look at how much you owe compared to how much you make, not just the fact that you have debt. We help clients every day who thought their student loans or credit cards would hold them back, and they’re now proud homeowners. Let’s take a look at your numbers — you might be closer to “yes” than you realize.

“What happens if my credit score isn’t perfect — do I still have options?”

Definitely. You don’t need perfect credit to buy a home — far from it. There are loan programs designed for borrowers with average or even lower credit scores, and sometimes just a few small changes can boost your score quickly. Don’t let fear of your credit stop you from asking — we’ll review your situation and show you the best path forward. Call us today and let’s find out what’s possible.

“Will I be stuck in this mortgage forever, or can I adjust if rates go down later?”

Nope — you’re never stuck. Many homeowners refinance when rates improve, or if their situation changes. Think of your first mortgage as a stepping stone, not a life sentence. The important part is getting you into the home you want now. Later, if better opportunities come along, we’ll be here to help you take advantage of them. Let’s start by getting you pre-approved and in the door.