Finance Center
Getting Started

1. Getting Started	2. Shop for a loan	3. Know the score
4. Get Pre-Approved	5. Application & Processing	6. Getting Funding
7. Questions & Answers

Start a Financial File : Your Financial File should contain all of your important financial documents. Regardless of the loan type, lenders will need information about you. Make copies of financial statements, bank accounts, any investments, all credit cards, auto loans, recent pay stubs and two years' worth of tax returns.

Check Your Credit Rating : Credit scores range between 400 and 800. 620 + is considered “good”. 680 + is considered “premium” and may possibly help get you a lower interest rate.

Below you will find the contact information for the 3 major credit reporting agencies to help you determine your credit rating. Ask your lender how to improve your credit score if you need to. Going forward, treat your credit like gold.

Equifax http://www.equifax.com (800) 685-1111
Experian http://www.experian.com (800) 392-1122
Trans Union http://www.transunion.com (800) 888-4213

Savings & Debt: If you are buying real estate, try to accumulate funds towards your down payment, closing costs (appraisal, miscellaneous fees, escrow, title insurance, etc.) and expenses such as inspections. Furthermore, try to pay down existing revolving and high interest rate debt like credit cards.