From application to keys in hand — what to expect at each stage.

One of the most common questions first-time homebuyers ask is:
👉 “How long does the mortgage process take?”

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most closings happen in 30 to 45 days — and knowing what to expect at each stage can help you stay ahead of the curve (and avoid unnecessary stress).

This guide breaks it down step-by-step so you know exactly what happens when — and what you can do to keep things moving smoothly.

---

🟦 Stage 1: Pre-Approval (1–3 Days)

This is your launch point. Getting pre-approved gives you a real budget, strengthens your offer, and lets you shop with confidence.

What happens:

• You complete a loan application
• Submit income, asset, and ID documents
• Your credit is pulled
• You get a pre-approval letter

💡 Tip: At PRMI, pre-approvals are fast, personalized, and handled in-house — no waiting on third-party lenders.

---

🟩 Stage 2: Home Shopping & Offer (1–2 Weeks+)

Once you’re pre-approved, the home search begins. Depending on the market and your goals, this can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

What happens:

• You tour homes with your agent
• Make an offer when you find the right one
• If accepted, you sign a purchase agreement and submit your earnest money deposit

---

🟨 Stage 3: Processing & Underwriting (2–3 Weeks)

This is where your lender takes over the heavy lifting — verifying all your info and preparing your loan file for approval.

What happens:

• Appraisal is ordered
• Title search is conducted
• Insurance is set up
• Your loan goes into underwriting

During this time, your loan officer may ask for updated documents or clarification on certain items. That’s totally normal.

🔑 PRMI Bonus: We handle most loans in-house, so you won’t be waiting on outsourced processors or unsure who’s touching your file.

---

🟧 Stage 4: Conditional Approval (1–5 Days)

Once underwriting reviews your file, you’ll usually receive a conditional approval — meaning your loan is approved, pending a few final items.

Common conditions include:

• Updated pay stubs or bank statements
• Signed disclosures
• Verification of employment

✅ Tip: Respond quickly here — delays during this phase can impact your closing timeline.

---

🟥 Stage 5: Clear to Close (1–3 Days)

This is the green light! Your loan is fully approved, all conditions are satisfied, and you’re ready to sign.

What happens:

• You receive your Closing Disclosure (CD) — a final summary of your loan terms and costs
• Your signing appointment is scheduled
• Your closing documents are prepared

At PRMI, we keep communication tight during this stage so there are no last-minute surprises.

---

🏁 Stage 6: Closing Day (1 Day)

This is the finish line! You’ll sign your final paperwork (usually at a title office or with a mobile notary) and become a homeowner.

What happens:

• You wire your down payment and closing funds
• Documents are signed and notarized
• The transaction is recorded with the county
• You get the keys!

🎉 Congratulations — you did it.

---

🧭 Final Thought: Timelines Vary, But Preparation Pays Off

Every loan is different. But when you know what’s coming — and have a team that communicates clearly — the process becomes a lot smoother.

At PRMI, we do everything we can to remove the friction, reduce the wait, and keep you feeling confident the entire way through.

---

👉 Have Questions About Your Timeline?

Let’s talk through your goals, your timeline, and build a plan that works.