Mortgage planning
resources.

Mortgage guidance from Arthur Kourouvacilis · Home1st Lending · NMLS 1828317

Before your first mortgage conversation

• Your purchase location, approximate price range and timeline.
• A comfortable monthly housing budget and a general idea of funds available for closing.
• Your income type: salary, self-employment, rental income or a combination.
• Questions about the property, your existing mortgage or your plans.

You do not need to upload documents to request a conversation. For a full review, your lender will explain the documentation needed and the secure submission process.

If you are self-employed

• Know when your business started and how it is organized.
• Be ready to discuss your income sources and significant recent changes.
• Ask which personal and business records are needed for the programs being considered.
• Discuss write-offs and income documentation before assuming a program fits.

Documentation varies by program. For a general overview, see Fannie Mae’s mortgage document guide. Discuss self-employed financing with Arthur.

If you are planning a construction project

• Do you own the land, or will it be part of the purchase?
• Have you chosen a builder and prepared plans or a budget?
• Does the budget include site preparation and the improvements you want?
• What is your expected timeline, and where will you live during construction?

Ask which builder, project and borrower requirements apply before committing to a financing plan. Explore construction financing.

Comparing mortgage offers

Compare the same loan type and assumptions. Look at interest rate, monthly payment, points, lender charges, total closing costs and cash to close. Also ask what is locked, what may change and what the loan costs over the time you expect to keep it.

The CFPB’s Loan Estimate comparison guide explains where to find key costs. A lower payment alone does not necessarily mean a lower total cost.

Want to talk through your checklist?

Request a conversation

Reviewed October 6, 2026. Educational information only; requirements depend on the loan and your circumstances.