After finding the home you want to buy, fill out a full application at the lender’s request and supply documentation relating to your income, debts and assets.

Schedule a home inspection as soon as possible so you will have enough time before your closing date to negotiate with the seller if the inspection reveals any unforeseen issues.

If your application for the mortgage is successful, you’ll receive conditional approval. At this stage, your lender may require additional documentation from you. Respond quickly to these requests to further the process.

Provide proof of insurance to your lender so the loan can receive final approval.

A home appraisal will be ordered to compare the value of the home you’re buying to other recently sold homes in the same price range and verify the purchase price is similar. A title search will also be ordered by the lender to make sure there are no outstanding liens on the property.

Don’t open new credit cards or make other major financial changes while the loan is being processed. Changes that affect your debt-to-income ratio could get in the way of your mortgage approval.

Lock in your interest rate no later than 10 days prior to your closing date.

Once the loan is approved and your inspection, appraisal and title search are complete, the lender will set a closing date and let you know exactly what you’ll need to close.

Get a cashier’s check or arrange to wire money to cover the down payment and closing costs at the closing.

Read the documents you receive at the closing and ask questions about the terms of the agreement.