Let’s be real, getting preapproved for a home loan can feel like a lot. Maybe you’re hearing all these terms you’ve never heard before, getting asked for documents you forgot existed, and wondering if you’re even doing it right. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Ramon Espinoza Home Loans, we make sure the preapproval process moves at your pace. Whether you’re buying your first home or just need a little guidance through the steps, we’re here to walk with you, not push you.
Preapproval Doesn’t Have to Be Scary
When people first reach out, they often expect a cold, complicated experience. But our approach is different. Preapproval is simply how we figure out what you can afford and what kind of home loan fits your situation best. It’s not a test you pass or fail, it’s the first step in building your path to homeownership.
We go slow when you need to, and we explain everything clearly. If you have questions, ask. If you don’t even know what to ask, that’s okay too. We’ll guide you through every step until you feel confident moving forward.
The Preapproval Checklist
If you’re W-2 and have a steady job, the list of things we need is short. Seriously—it’s easier than most people think.
Here’s what we typically ask for:
- 30 days of recent pay stubs
- 2 months of bank statements
- 2 years of W-2s
- 2 years of tax returns
That’s it. With those four pieces, we can get started on your preapproval and show you what’s possible. And if something’s missing or doesn’t look quite right, we’ll walk you through how to fix it.
Go at Your Speed—But Don’t Wait Too Long
We’re all about patience, but timing does matter. Documents like pay stubs and bank statements go stale after a while. So if things drag out too long, we may need to ask for updates. Plus, the housing market and interest rates can shift. What’s available to you today might not be the same next month.
So while we move at your comfort level, we also keep an eye on timing to make sure we don’t lose any opportunities.
Communication Is Everything
One thing we say often is: If you feel stuck, call us.
Sometimes people freeze up because they think they’ve already asked a “dumb question” or they’re embarrassed that they don’t understand something. Don’t be. That’s literally what we’re here for.
We check in regularly, especially if we sense hesitation in a text or email. Sometimes it just takes one phone call to clear up what’s really holding you back. We’ve helped thousands of buyers through this, and we know it’s not always about the numbers—it’s about feeling supported and knowing someone has your back.
Every Buyer Is Different
A first-time buyer with one job and one bank account? That’s a straightforward file.
A high-income buyer with money spread across five accounts and a 1099? That’s a different kind of file, and we prepare accordingly.
No matter your situation, the key is working together. We’ll ask for what we need, and we’ll help you get it. If something doesn’t add up, we’ll explain why and find the fix. You’re never left on your own.
Let’s Make It Simple, Together
Preapproval isn’t a wall, it’s a door. And we’re here to hold it open for you.
We know life is busy, and finances are personal. That’s why we don’t treat this like a transaction. We treat it like a conversation. You’re not expected to know all the answers; that’s our job.
Let’s take this one step at a time. Reach out today, and let’s figure it out together.
Contact the REHL Team Clemente at: clemente@ramonespinozahomeloans.com or Ramon at ramon@ramonespinozahomeloans.com.
Se habla Español.
