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    • Jim Ronecker Loans
    • Realtors
    • Buyer's Guide
    • Privacy Policy
  • Jim Ronecker Loans
  • Realtors
  • Buyer's Guide
  • Privacy Policy

Jim Ronecker | Integrity Financial Services

 Local lender serving Tampa Bay and surrounding areas.
Helping buyers and agents navigate financing with clarity and confidence.

How to Get Approved Without Surprises

Clear answers. Confident decisions.
Begin Pre-Approval

What to Expect From Start to Closing

A Clear Breakdown of the Process

Buying a home should feel straightforward.
Here’s how the process works so you know what’s coming next and avoid surprises. 

Loan Options Overview

Standard Mortgages

FHA Mortgage Options

FHA Mortgage Options

 The most common type of mortgage. Conventional loans are not backed by the government and typically require stronger credit and stable income. They often offer competitive rates and flexible terms. 

FHA Mortgage Options

FHA Mortgage Options

FHA Mortgage Options

 FHA loans are designed to help buyers with smaller down payments and more flexible credit guidelines. They are popular with first-time homebuyers. 

Veteran Home Loans

FHA Mortgage Options

Veteran Home Loans

 VA loans are available to eligible veterans and active-duty service members. They often require little or no down payment and offer favorable loan terms. 

High-Value Loans

Investor Property Loans

Veteran Home Loans

 

Jumbo loans are used when the loan amount exceeds conventional loan limits. They are commonly used for higher-priced homes and may require stronger financial qualifications.

Self-Employed Loans

Investor Property Loans

Investor Property Loans

 Bank statement loans are designed for self-employed borrowers who may not show traditional income on their tax returns. Instead of using W-2s, lenders review bank deposits to determine income eligibility. 

Investor Property Loans

Investor Property Loans

Investor Property Loans

 DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans are designed for real estate investors. Approval is based primarily on the rental income generated by the property rather than the borrower’s personal income. 

What Actually Determines Your Approval

Credit Score

 Your credit score impacts your loan options, rate, and approval.
Higher scores improve terms, but lower scores can still qualify depending on the program. 

Employment & Income

Income is reviewed differently depending on how you’re paid:

  • W-2 Income: Base salary is straightforward. Bonus and overtime may require a history. 
  • Commission & Bonus: Usually averaged over time and must be consistent. 
  • Self-Employed: Based on tax returns, not gross income. Write-offs can reduce qualifying income, but options exist.

Debt & Ratios

Your debt-to-income ratio compares your monthly debt to your income.
Lower debt makes approval easier. Higher debt can limit options or reduce buying power. 

Financial Assets

 Lenders review your available assets, including savings, gift funds, and retirement accounts.
You’ll need funds for your down payment, closing costs, and items like taxes and insurance collected at closing. In some cases, retirement accounts like 401(k)s can also be used. 

Mistakes That Can Delay or Kill a Deal

Avoid New Credit at Closing

Avoid New Credit at Closing

Avoid New Credit at Closing

Opening new credit can increase your debt and delay approval.  

Hold Off on Big Purchases

Avoid New Credit at Closing

Avoid New Credit at Closing

 Financing cars, furniture, or appliances before closing can impact your approval. 

Stay Employed Till Closed

Avoid New Credit at Closing

Be Careful with Bank Deposits

 Changing jobs during the process can delay or affect approval. 

Be Careful with Bank Deposits

Be Careful with Bank Deposits

Be Careful with Bank Deposits

Large or unusual deposits may require documentation and can slow things down. 

Avoid Co-Signing Loans

Be Careful with Bank Deposits

Avoid Co-Signing Loans

 Co-signing increases your debt and can impact your approval. 

Pay Bills on Time

Be Careful with Bank Deposits

Avoid Co-Signing Loans

Late payments during the process can affect your credit and approval. 

Get Pre-Approved Before You Make an Offer

Know exactly where you stand and avoid surprises when it’s t
Start Your Pre-Approval Now

FAQs for Your Mortgage Needs

 Questions? Call or text me at 813-629-6363 or email jr@integrityfinancialservices.com 

 A pre-approval is when a lender reviews your income, credit, and assets to determine what you can qualify for.
It helps you understand your budget, strengthens your offer, and prevents surprises during the process. 


The down payment depends on the loan program and your financial situation.
Many buyers think 20% is required, but that’s not always the case. Some programs allow much lower down payments depending on credit, income, and property type.
In addition to your down payment, plan for closing costs and items like taxes and insurance collected at closing.


 Even after pre-approval, financial changes can impact your loan.
Avoid opening new credit, making large purchases, changing jobs, or moving money without checking first.
When in doubt, check with your lender before making any major financial decisions. 


 Mortgage rates change daily and are influenced by factors like market conditions, loan type, credit score, down payment, and property type.
The lowest rate isn’t always the best option. It’s important to consider the full picture, including payment, structure, and closing costs.


After pre-approval, keep your financial situation stable until closing.
Even small changes can impact your loan, so it’s best to check before making any major decisions. 


Have a question or ready to get started? Call or text me any

Jim Ronecker

Integrity Financial Services

Integrity Financial Services

Mortgage Loan Originator
NMLS #1025516 


 Call or Text: 813-629-6363 

Integrity Financial Services

Integrity Financial Services

Integrity Financial Services

 NMLS #327908 


Office: + 727-531-0000
jr@integrityfinancialservices.com

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