// Home Loan Expert in Montana
Welcome to a Worry Free Home Loan Process
Work with a local home loan expert in Montana who manages every detail of the process for you, so you can focus on the things that really matter.
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mortgage tips
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// Mortgage application tips
How to Get the Best Mortgage Rate
Your complete guide to exactly what to do (and not to do) to get the best mortgage rate.
- Tips for a good credit score.
- Ensure you’ll receive the best interest rate and terms.
- Financial pitfalls to avoid before closing.
Securing a Home Loan Should Never Be a Headache
Without a local home loan expert by your side it may cost you...
- You’ll worry and stress wondering if you’re doing it right.
- You’ll pay too much in fees or miss out on the best interest rate.
- You won’t have clarity on how the process works.
- You’ll move too slowly and miss out on a property you love.
// Understand the Home Loan Process
Your Trusted Home Loan Expert
When you work with us, you receive nothing less than full transparency and 24/7 communication, so every question is answered and you know exactly what to expect next. Day or night, rain or shine, weekday or weekend — we’re here for you.
Process
Enjoy a Worry Free Loan Process
So you can focus on finding the right home for your family.
Be Ready to Act Fast
Never let the loan process cause you to miss out on the right home.
Get Fast, Clear Communication
Benefit from an efficient, professional relationship.
Secure the Best Rate Available
Market knowledge that will save you thousands.
Have Every Question Answered
Never feel like you're lost or in the dark about the process.
Land an Experienced Adviser
We can help you regardless of the circumstance.
Positive & Supportive
Keith is very helpful. He has such a positive and supportive attitude. He was always available when I needed advice or encouragement. Keith was always ready to provide assistance and preapproval letters.
// Kathryn L.
Miracle Worker
Even though our situation proved complicated, Keith never lost his positive attitude and professional demeanor. He truly is a miracle worker!
// Sandra C.
Saved Us a Bunch
Keith was there for every question and concern we came across. He was always very quick to get back to us, and always seemed to be invested and up-to-date. Saved us a bunch by pulling the trigger at the right time!
// Ryan L.
Smooth & Painless
We have never had such pleasant loan experience. Keith was very fast, efficient and professional. We will recommend Keith to anyone who wants a smooth and painless process.
// Anna R.
Get an Offer Accepted Fast
In the market of today, you better be ready to act fast. Keith expedites what needs to be done to get an offer accepted. Keith gets it done. Very professional and a fine personality to boot.
// Bill M.
Streamlined Our Load Process
Keith was responsive and forthright in all his communications while streamlining our loan process. We thank him and his staff for their professional and friendly demeanor!
// Diana B.
On Top of the Details
Keith made the whole process smooth and easy! Keith was on top of all the details from start to finish. He would check-in make sure everything was as I wanted. Thank you Keith!
// sabin H.
// Loan Options
You’ll Find the Perfect Loan Option
“Keith went above and beyond to make this happen for us.... We have been trying to make this happen for a few years and have given up because the process was too confusing and trying. Because of Keith's hard work my mom will be living in a comfortable, warm home.”
melissa d.
Conventional Loans
A mortgage loan that’s not backed by a government agency.
Jumbo Loans
When you want to borrow more than the lending limit for a conventional loan.
Construction Loans
Funds custom home construction, then converts to a permanent mortgage.
FHA Loans
A good option if your credit score isn’t high enough to qualify for a conventional loan.
VA Loans
Designed for select members of the military community, their spouses and other beneficiaries.
USDA Loans
Helps low- to moderate-income homebuyers purchase a home in an eligible rural area.
Renovation Loans
Purchase and renovate a new home while still making one monthly payment.
About Us
// Keith Valentine
Ready to Act Fast
In today’s market you have to act fast to secure the home you want. We expedite your home loan process to ensure your offer gets accepted.
“Keith was always available to answer questions; early mornings, late nights, and weekends. He was always prompt to respond. He explains everything in great detail so that no stone goes left unturned. He will do his best to get you the loan you need to live comfortably without worry. No matter your circumstance you should contact Keith Valentine for a home loan!”
Tim B.
// Experienced Home Loan Expert
Advisor
“Keith Was With Us Every Step of the Way”
With decades of experience and thousands of successful loan closures under our belt, we have the knowledge and tools necessary to secure the financing you need. No matter how simple or complicated the situation, we take the time to understand your individual needs and advise you every step of the way.
// easy peasy
Streamline Your Home Loan Process Today
If you’re worried about the way it all works, we’re home loan experts and we’re here for you. No matter how many questions you have, how fast you need to act, or how complicated your situation, getting started is as easy as 1-2-3. Contact us today!
- Submit Your Info
- Get a Personalized Review
- Get Approved Quickly
// FAQ
Common Home Loan Questions
Have a question about the home loan process? Check here for answers to the most common questions, or contact us for more info.
Not necessarily, but it will certainly help. It is possible to get a conventional mortgage with a FICO credit score as low as 620, and you can obtain a higher-cost FHA mortgage with a score in the 500s. However, be aware that the lower your score, the higher your interest rate will be. On a $250,000 mortgage, the difference between a 620 credit score and an “excellent” 760 adds up to more than $86,000 in interest savings over the life of a 30-year loan.
The short answer is that you can get a conventional mortgage with as little as 3% down, an FHA loan with 3.5% down, and a VA or USDA loan with no money down at all. However, anything less than 20% could result in the requirement to pay extra insurance on your mortgage known as private mortgage insurance (PMI), or mortgage insurance premium (MIP).
The term “closing costs” refer to all of the charges you’ll need to pay before your loan is completed. This can include origination fees, title insurance, prepaid escrows, and more. Closing costs can vary significantly, but generally, expect to pay around 2% to 3% of the loan amount in closing costs.
There are several different types of mortgages to choose from. A conventional mortgage is tougher to qualify for credit-wise, but an FHA loan can be costlier. If you’re a veteran, a VA loan could be the best option for you, and if you plan to buy a home in a rural area, a USDA mortgage could give you a no-money-down option.
Your lender may ask for many different items, but in general, be prepared to show all of the following:
- Government issued photo ID,
- Income verification (Last two year’s federal tax returns, W-2s, 1099s, and your last 30 day’s pay stubs),
- Most recent 2 month’s bank statements (Used for proof of funds to close – any recent deposit may need an explanation of where it came from).
The general rule of thumb is that no more than one-third of your monthly gross income should go to your monthly mortgage payment. Your gross income is the total income before any deductions are made on your paystub. Lenders also determine how much home you can afford by looking at a few key financial components that make up your financial portfolio, including your:
- Other monthly payment obligations
- Credit score
- Down payment amount
Using a mortgage calculator makes it easy to get a general idea of how much home you can afford by allowing you to enter in your down payment with current mortgage rates, estimated taxes, estimated insurance and HOA fees (if applicable), giving you an example of what you can expect to pay when it comes time to apply for a home loan.
A mortgage pre-qualification is essentially just a conversation between you and your lender about your financials, assets and down payment. A pre-approval, on the other hand, requires the lender to verify your credit score, collect your financials and submit everything in an application to the investor or underwriting department. For this reason, a pre-approval is more accurate and carries more weight with your offer to buy a home.
Mortgage pre-approvals and pre-qualifications are strongly recommended if you want to be taken seriously as a buyer. Mortgage pre-approvals and pre-qualifications are like your financial resume. Your pre-approval lets the seller know you’ve got what it takes to be a serious contender for the purchase of their home. You may even find in the home search that some real estate agents and sellers require that you have a mortgage pre-approval in hand before they show you homes. Work with a mortgage advisor with a mortgage pre-approval program that goes above and beyond basic pre-approval requirements to give your pre-approval impressive curb appeal that stands out from the competition. Pre-approvals are generally only valid for 30-90 days, so time is of the essence.
It takes 30-45 days, on average, to close on a home. Every situation is different. The home closing process can be shortened or extended from this average based on several factors like financing, seller conditions, repairs, and the like.
On closing day you’ll sign all legal documents needed to grant you ownership of the home. You’ll also play your closing costs and down payment via cashier’s check or wire transfer needed to close the deal. You should expect to receive a Closing Disclosure (CD) listing out all of your costs and what’s due on closing day so there are no surprises.
