FAQs

Straight Answers, No Jargon.

Pre-approval, credit, closing costs, loan types, rates, and working with our team, explained in plain language for borrowers and homebuyers.

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Nine Areas Borrowers Ask About Most

Jump straight to pre-approval, credit, costs, loan types, and more. Every answer is educational, not a rate quote or loan offer.

Getting Started & Pre-Approval5 questions
Credit & Eligibility5 questions
Down Payment & Closing Costs5 questions
Loan Types & Programs5 questions
Application & Documentation5 questions
Rates, Terms & Locking5 questions
Closing & Funding5 questions
Refinancing & Home Equity5 questions
Working With Gold Star5 questions

Getting Started & Pre-Approval

How to begin, what pre-approval means, and what to expect in the first few days.

What is mortgage pre-approval?

How do I get pre-approved with Gold Star?

How long does pre-approval usually take?

Does pre-approval guarantee I will get a loan?

What is the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Credit & Eligibility

Credit inquiries, scores, and common borrower situations.

Will checking my eligibility hurt my credit?

What credit score do I need for a mortgage?

Can I qualify with student loans or other monthly debt?

Do you work with self-employed borrowers?

Can I buy a home after bankruptcy or foreclosure?

Down Payment & Closing Costs

Cash to close, gifts, mortgage insurance, and assistance programs.

How much down payment do I need?

What are closing costs?

Can someone gift my down payment?

What is private mortgage insurance (PMI)?

Are down payment assistance programs available?

Loan Types & Programs

How common mortgage programs differ and when each may apply.

What is the difference between conventional, FHA, and VA loans?

Which loan type is right for me?

Do you offer USDA loans?

Do you offer jumbo loans?

Can I finance an investment or rental property?

Application & Documentation

Paperwork, timelines, underwriting, and status updates.

What documents will I need to apply?

How do I upload documents securely?

How long does the mortgage process take?

What is underwriting?

Why was I asked for more documentation?

Rates, Terms & Locking

How pricing works and what a rate lock means.

How are mortgage rates determined?

Should I choose a fixed or adjustable rate?

What is a rate lock?

Can I lock a rate before I find a home?

Are rates shown on mortgage websites guaranteed?

Closing & Funding

What happens at the closing table and how funds are disbursed.

What happens at closing?

How much cash do I need at closing?

Can closing be delayed?

What is a final walkthrough?

Who attends closing?

Refinancing & Home Equity

When to refinance, cash-out options, and PMI removal.

When should I consider refinancing?

How soon can I refinance after buying?

Can I refinance without paying closing costs upfront?

Can I remove PMI by refinancing?

What is a cash-out refinance?

Working With Gold Star

Loan officers, licensing, support, and how we communicate.

How do I choose a loan officer?

What states does Gold Star lend in?

How will I stay updated during my loan?

Do you offer online applications?

What if I have a concern about my experience?

Educational only, not a loan offer. Program terms, rates, and availability vary by state and borrower profile. Talk with a licensed loan officer for guidance on your file.

Still Have Questions?

A Licensed Loan Officer Can Walk Through Your File.

Start online, call our main line, or message us, we will connect you with the right person for your state and loan type.

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