Buying a Home? Here's the Financing Side
Whether it's your first home or your fifth, the financing process can feel like a lot. Andy walks you through every step — from pre-approval to the moment you get the keys.
The Financing Side of Buying a Home
Buying a home is two things at once: finding the right place and figuring out how to pay for it. Most people focus on the first part and feel lost on the second. That's where Andy comes in.
Andy doesn't just hand you a loan and wish you luck. He guides you through the entire financing process — explaining what's happening, what you need, and what comes next. By the time you're at the closing table, you'll know exactly what you signed up for and why.
Here's what to expect, step by step.
From Pre-Approval to Closing
Six steps. Andy is with you at every one.
1. Get Pre-Approved
Before you start house hunting, Andy helps you get pre-approved. This tells you how much you can borrow and shows sellers you're a serious buyer. It often takes just a few days once you share your documents, though timelines can vary.
2. Find Your Home
With your pre-approval in hand, you know your budget and can shop with confidence. Andy helps you find homes that fit your needs and your financing — so there are no surprises later.
3. Make an Offer
When you find the right home, Andy helps you craft a strong offer. Your pre-approval letter gives you an edge — sellers know you're ready to move.
4. Lock Your Rate
Once your offer is accepted, Andy works to lock in your interest rate. This protects you from rate changes while your loan is being finalized.
5. Underwriting & Appraisal
The lender verifies your details and orders an appraisal of the home. Andy coordinates everything and keeps you updated so you always know what's happening.
6. Closing
You sign the final paperwork, the loan funds, and you get the keys. Andy is there to make sure everything goes smoothly — and to hand you those keys.
What to Have Ready Before You Start
Gathering these documents up front makes everything faster. Don't worry if you're missing something — Andy will help you track it down.
Important: You'll submit these documents through the secure NEXA loan origination system — never through this website. Andy will guide you to the right place when it's time. No sensitive financial information should be shared through any form on this site.
How Long Does It Take?
Pre-approval: often just a few days. From accepted offer to closing: often around 30–45 days, though timelines vary. Andy keeps things moving and communicates with you at every step, so you're never left wondering what's next.
Questions About Buying & Financing
What's the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?
Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on basic info you share — it's a ballpark. Pre-approval is more official: the lender verifies your income, credit, and assets, then gives you a specific loan amount. Sellers take pre-approval seriously. If you're ready to buy, pre-approval is the step you want.
What documents do I need to get started?
Typically: recent pay stubs (usually 30 days), W-2s from the past two years, two months of bank statements, and a photo ID. If you're self-employed, you'll also need tax returns and profit-and-loss statements. Andy gives you a clear checklist so nothing is missed.
How long does it take from pre-approval to closing?
Pre-approval usually takes a few days. Once you've made an offer and it's accepted, the loan often closes in about 30 to 45 days, though timelines can vary depending on the details. Andy keeps the process on track and communicates with you at every step.
Can I buy a home if I'm self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed buyers can absolutely get a mortgage — the documentation is just a bit different. You'll need tax returns and profit-and-loss statements instead of (or in addition to) W-2s. Andy works with self-employed buyers regularly and knows how to present your income clearly to lenders.
What if my offer gets accepted but the appraisal comes in low?
It happens. If the home appraises for less than the agreed price, you have options: renegotiate the price, make up the difference in cash, or walk away (if your contract includes an appraisal contingency). Andy helps you think through the best move for your situation.
Ready to Start Your Application?
It only takes a few minutes to get started. Andy will guide you the rest of the way.
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Andy Lugo (Andrew Lugo) — Loan Officer, NEXA Mortgage, LLC
NEXA Mortgage, LLC · NMLS #212011
Andy Lugo Homes · California DRE #01512654
Equal Housing Opportunity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or handicap.
All mortgage lending copy on this website is informational only and does not constitute a commitment to lend. Final mortgage disclosures and any NEXA-specific required wording are pending review and approval by NEXA Mortgage, LLC before publication.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Andy makes home financing simple and stress-free. Start your application now, or reach out — he's happy to answer your questions with zero pressure.