A mortgage broker acts as a licensed intermediary between borrowers and lenders, helping you find the best home loan or refinance option for your unique financial situation. Unlike going directly to a bank, a mortgage broker works with multiple lenders to compare rates, terms, and loan programs, including conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo loans. They guide you through the application process, collect and review necessary documents, and communicate with lenders to streamline your approval. By working with a mortgage broker, you can save time, access a broader range of loan options, and get personalized advice tailored to your homeownership goals.

You can get pre-approved by completing a short application, pulling your credit, and providing basic documents such as income statements and bank records. Onward Mortgage offers fast, online pre-approvals so you know exactly how much home you can afford before shopping.

Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 580–620, depending on the loan program. FHA loans allow lower credit scores, while conventional loans often require higher scores for the best rates. ChequeMark Mortgage can review your credit and help you understand your options.

Common documents include pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, bank statements, and identification. Self-employed borrowers may need additional documentation. ChequeMark Mortgage provides a custom document checklist to make the process simple.

Pre-qualification is an estimate based on self-reported information. Pre-approval is a verified review of income, credit, and assets. A pre-approval from ChequeMark Mortgage gives you stronger buying power when making an offer.

Affordability depends on your income, credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment amount. ChequeMark Mortgage can run scenarios to help you understand realistic price ranges and monthly payment options.

A mortgage rate is the interest you pay on your home loan. Rates are influenced by credit score, loan type, market conditions, and economic factors. We monitor the market daily at ChequeMark Mortgage to help clients secure the most competitive rate available.

PMI protects the lender when borrowers put less than 20% down. With conventional loans, PMI can typically be removed once you reach 20% equity. FHA loans include a Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP), which may last longer depending on your down payment.

Most states offer down-payment assistance, grants, or low-interest loan options. Onward Mortgage works with many of these programs and can help you find the best one based on your income, credit, and location.

Common mistakes include not getting pre-approved early, opening new credit accounts, underestimating closing costs, and shopping without a firm budget. ChequeMark Mortgage guides first-time buyers every step of the way to avoid these issues.

Closing costs typically include lender fees, appraisal, title insurance, taxes, and prepaid items. They usually range from 2–6% of the loan amount. Onward Mortgage provides a detailed cost breakdown upfront so there are no surprises.

Yes, many loan programs allow down-payment or closing-cost assistance from family or approved donors. We’ll help you document the gift properly to meet lending guidelines.

Conventional: Best for strong credit; flexible terms

FHA: Ideal for lower credit scores or smaller down payments

VA: Exclusive benefits for eligible veterans and service members

USDA: Zero-down loans for rural and qualifying suburban areas

Onward Mortgage helps compare programs side by side.

FHA loans offer low down payments, flexible credit requirements, and competitive rates. They’re especially popular with first-time homebuyers or those rebuilding credit.

Active-duty service members, veterans, qualifying spouses, and some National Guard/Reserve members may qualify. VA loans offer 0% down, no PMI, and excellent rates.

USDA loans are zero-down loans offered in eligible rural and suburban areas. Onward Mortgage can check your address and eligibility instantly.

The best loan depends on your credit, income, down payment, and long-term financial goals. Our team analyzes all loan types to match you with the best fit.

Refinancing makes sense when interest rates drop, your credit improves, or you want to lower your monthly payment. Onward Mortgage can run savings scenarios to show you if refinancing is worth it.

Savings vary, but many borrowers reduce their interest rate, eliminate PMI, or shorten their loan term. Onward Mortgage offers a free refinance review to estimate your potential savings.

Refinancing can lower your payment by reducing your rate, removing mortgage insurance, or extending your loan term. Onward Mortgage helps calculate your new estimated payment.

Our Second Look Guarantee offers a free, no-obligation review of your mortgage estimate. We compare rates, fees, and loan terms to help you get the best possible deal. If we can’t beat your current loan estimate, we’ll give you $100 gift card just for considering us!

Not all borrowers will qualify and all loans are subject to approval. Not valid with other offers. Must work with inside Purchase Team at Onward Mortgage for offer. Program rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. One gift card per household. Offer not valid for home equity lines of credit or second mortgage loans. *Must provide our loan officer with a loan estimate from a competing lender within 24 hours.

Many buyers don’t realize how much they can save by comparing offers. A second opinion can reveal unnecessary fees or better loan options.

No. Our review is 100% free and carries zero pressure.

We analyze your interest rate, APR, lender fees, closing costs, and loan structure. Our goal is to ensure total transparency and maximum savings.

Yes, often. Even a small rate or fee difference can save thousands over the life of your loan.

The process includes pre-approval, home shopping, making an offer, appraisal, underwriting, and closing. Onward Mortgage guides you through every step.

While you can buy without an agent, having one strengthens your negotiation power. We work closely with trusted local realtors to ensure a seamless experience.

You’ll sign final documents, pay closing costs, and receive your keys. Onward Mortgage coordinates with the title company to make closing smooth and efficient.