Mortgage FAQs

A point is equal to one percent of the loan amount. For example, if you get a mortgage for $100,000 with one point, you'll pay $1,000 in points as part of your closing costs.

We have various interest rates and point options. For example, you can choose to pay zero points by accepting a higher interest rate. By paying more points, you can obtain a lower interest rate and monthly payment. We would be glad to help you evaluate various options.

The interest rate percentage reflects the annual cost of the loan to the borrower, without fees charged for the loan. The annual percentage rate (APR) reflects the effective annual cost including interest and certain fees or other charges, such as loan origination fees, points, most closing costs, and if applicable, mortgage insurance. When comparing different options, you will want to consider not only the interest rate but also the APR, which is helpful in comparing certain mortgage loan costs.

The time it takes to close a mortgage loan varies with the type of mortgage, and buyer and homeowner situations. A mortgage loan for a home purchase can take as little as 30 days from application, but this will vary depending on the closing date listed on the sales contract. A mortgage refinance generally takes between 45 and 60 days from application to close. An incomplete application can delay the process.

Once we start the application process, it’s vital to get your required information and documents to us at the requested time. We want to close your loan quickly, and we need your help to ensure we have a completed application and all supporting documentation to make a final loan decision.

Pre-qualified means that we have reviewed your application and credit report and determined your loan request meets program parameters. Final approval will be issued once you have signed a sales contract and we have verified all the application information.

You can lock your rate up to 10 business days prior to your loan closing, as long as we have your completed application, the property address for your refinance or new home, and your application deposit. Once you have locked in your rate, that rate is set for the lock period chosen unless the terms of your loan change.

Closing costs are expenses associated with any home loan at the closing of a real estate transaction. Closing costs vary, and options for paying those costs may also vary. Your mortgage loan officer can give you an estimate. Learn more about closing costs.

We may sell some of our mortgage loans, but with the help of our trusted servicing partner, we maintain the servicing for many loans we make.