He always answered my questions quickly and at any time of the day! He made us feel secure and comfortable the whole process through.
Free 10-minute video
The Approval System
How to go from "can I even qualify?" to pre-approved and ready to make an offer. Watch it start to finish, then apply in about 10 minutes.
4.87/5 from 465 real homebuyer reviews
1,000+ homeowners helped
No cost to apply
In the video
What you'll know in 10 minutes
The same walkthrough I give buyers on a first call, so you know exactly where you stand before you talk to anyone.
- What lenders actually look atCredit, income, debts, assets and the home, and how each one affects your approval.
- How much home you can affordHow your approval amount is set, and how to turn it into a monthly payment you're comfortable with.
- How much you really need downThe programs that let you buy with far less than 20%, including assistance options.
- The step-by-step approval processWhat happens after you apply, what documents you'll need, and how long each step takes.
- Mistakes that can sink an approvalThe small moves that cause problems right before closing, and what to do instead.
The system
Four steps to pre-approved
About 10 minutes
Apply online
Answer a few questions on Guild's secure application from your phone or computer.
Same or next business day
Review with Alex
I review your file, pull credit, and call you to go over your options and numbers.
Once documents are in
Get your letter
Send pay stubs, W-2s and bank statements, and get a pre-approval letter you can shop with.
When you find the home
Make your offer
Shop in the right price range and make offers sellers take seriously. I update your letter for each one.
Q&A
Questions buyers ask before they apply
Don't see yours? Call or text me at (435) 680-1513 and I'll answer it.
Does applying cost anything?
No. Applying and getting pre-approved is free, and it doesn't commit you to anything. You only pay costs if you move forward with a loan on a home you're buying.
Will applying hurt my credit?
A pre-approval does include a credit check, which can cause a small, temporary dip in your score. Credit scoring models generally treat multiple mortgage inquiries in a short shopping window as a single inquiry, so you can compare lenders without being penalized for each one.
Knowing your real credit picture early also gives you time to fix anything before you find a home.
How long does it take?
The application takes about 10 minutes. After that, I review it and reach out, usually the same or next business day. Once your documents are in, the pre-approval letter often follows quickly.
What documents will I need?
Most buyers need:
Pay stubs from the last 30 days, W-2s from the last two years, bank statements from the last two months, and a photo ID. If you're self-employed, plan on two years of tax returns. You can start the application before you have everything.
What credit score do I need?
It depends on the loan program. FHA loans allow lower scores than most conventional loans, and VA loans have flexible guidelines for eligible veterans. Plenty of buyers qualify with scores they assumed were too low.
If you're not there yet, I'll tell you exactly what to work on and how long it should take.
How much do I need for a down payment?
Often much less than 20%. VA loans can be 0% down for eligible borrowers, FHA starts at 3.5%, and some conventional loans start at 3% for qualified buyers. Down payment assistance programs can help cover the rest, and sellers can sometimes contribute to closing costs.
I'm self-employed. Can I still get approved?
Yes. Lenders usually look at two years of tax returns, and your write-offs lower the income they can count. There are also programs that qualify you on bank statements instead. Apply and I'll walk you through which path fits your situation.
What's the difference between pre-qualified and pre-approved?
A pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell a lender. A pre-approval means your credit has been pulled and your income and assets reviewed. Sellers and their agents take a pre-approval much more seriously.
How long is a pre-approval good for?
Pre-approvals are typically good for a limited time, often around 60 to 90 days, because your credit and documents need to stay current. If you're still shopping after that, we refresh it with updated documents.
What if I'm not ready to buy yet?
Applying early is still the best first step. You'll know your number, what to work on, and how long until you're ready. If you'd rather keep learning first, join the free Utah Homebuyer Club.
From recent buyers
4.87/5 stars from 465 real homebuyer reviews
He makes you feel empowered in the buying process and never afraid to ask him any question.
Loan officer would not say no!! He made it happen regardless of road blocks! Great person to work with!!
Your next step
You watched the video. Now get your real number.
Apply in about 10 minutes. I'll review it personally and call you with your options, no cost and no commitment.