Figure out if you’re ready to buy a home, and how much you can afford. Use our helpful tools and resources to answer these questions and determine your homebuying budget.

It’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a home loan early in the search process. With Clear, you can apply online and get pre-approved in as little as 24 hours.

Work with a qualified real estate agent to find your ideal property. When shopping for homes, remember to keep your head on your shoulders and stick to your budget. Happy hunting!

Once you’ve found the right home, make an offer and get it under contract. You cannot apply for a home loan until you have a signed purchase contract.

Get rate quotes from three different mortgage lenders—including Clear! Use our custom quote builder to get an easy-to-read breakdown of all loan options available to you

Visit our website to set up an account and password. Then log in to our secure online application portal to begin your loan application.

Follow the prompts to fill in your info, complete tasks, and upload required documents. You can speed up the process—and make it much easier—by allowing our system temporary electronic access to your bank accounts. That way you won’t have to retrieve and upload individual bank statements. The technology we use is highly secure, and we do not see or store your information.

Once all tasks are completed, your application is submitted automatically.

You’ll receive your Rate Lock Agreement and Loan Disclosures within 1–3 business days. We’ll ask you to sign these documents ASAP to lock your rate and get things moving.

Next, we’ll organize your file and reach out to you if anything is missing. We’ll also order any necessary verification services (e.g., appraisal).

An Underwriter will review your file and may request additional info or documentation. Please respond quickly to their requests to help move things along.

Once everything is received and verified, the Underwriter will approve your loan, and you’ll receive your Final Closing Disclosure (CD).

Finally, you’ll physically sign your closing documents at your scheduled Closing Appointment. Remember to bring your Cash to Close in the form of a cashier’s check or wire transfer. Closing typically occurs within 4–6 weeks after you submit your application.

Once all funds are distributed, your loan is officially complete. Purchase loans are typically funded on the same day as Closing. Refinance loans are funded after a required waiting period of 3 business days. Your Deed of Trust/Mortgage is then recorded in the public record.

Within 1–3 weeks after your loan is closed and funded, you'll receive your Loan Payment Information. Begin making your monthly mortgage payments according to the instructions.