Buying a Home
Your Homeownership Journey Starts Here.
Getting a mortgage can seem overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. At The McDaniel Mortgage Group, we guide you every step of the way with education, clarity, and personalized support. Whether it’s your first home or your forever home, we help you find the right loan, navigate the process, and close with confidence.
What to Expect When Buying a Home
THE MORTGAGE PROCESS TYPICALLY INVOLVES SIX KEY STEPS. HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:
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Pre-Qualification
We review your application and credit to estimate how much you’re likely to qualify for. This gives you a starting point for your home search.
Tip: Be sure to submit your documents early — we can’t pre-qualify without them.
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Pre-Approval
Once we’ve received and reviewed your documents, we’ll issue your Pre-Approval Letter. This shows sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer — it’s time to go shopping.
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Under Contract
You’ve found a home and your offer has been accepted — congratulations! Behind the scenes, we’ll begin processing your loan and gathering any additional documents needed to move forward.
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Conditional (Initial) Approval
Underwriting has reviewed your file and issued your initial approval. There may be a few simple items (called “conditions”) needed before we can finalize everything — don’t worry, this is very common.
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Appraisal
Once your inspections are complete and you give us the go-ahead, we’ll order the appraisal. This verifies the value of the home and is a key step before final approval.
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Clear to Close
This is it — your final approval is in, your documents are ready, and you’re almost at the finish line. All that’s left is to schedule closing and get the keys to your new home.
First-Time Buyer Support
Not sure what to expect? We’ve got your back. We’ll help you understand:
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Down payment assistance programs
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How much you need to save
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What credit score you need (and how to improve it)
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The difference between FHA, Conventional, VA, and USDA loans
Related Pages & Resources
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Loan Options
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The Mortgage Process
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Down Payment Assistance
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Apply Now
Step-by-Step Support from Pre-Approval to Keys in Hand
Here’s how we help make your home buying experience smooth and successful:
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Get Pre-Approved
Start with a pre-approval to understand your buying power, strengthen your offers, and get a clear picture of your monthly payment. We’ll walk you through income, credit, and down payment requirements — no guesswork.
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Explore Your Loan Options
We’ll help you compare the pros and cons of different mortgage types, including:-
Conventional Loans
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FHA Loans
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VA Loans (for military and veterans)
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USDA Loans (for rural/suburban buyers)
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Creative Financing or Non-Traditional Loans
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Not sure what you qualify for? That’s what we’re here for.
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Partner with a Real Estate Agent
We’re happy to refer you to experienced local agents in your area who understand your budget, timeline, and goals. Your loan pre-approval gives them the confidence to negotiate on your behalf.
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Make an Offer & Start the Loan Process
Once your offer is accepted, we finalize the paperwork and guide you through the underwriting process. We’ll coordinate with your realtor, appraiser, and title company to keep everything moving.
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Close & Get Your Keys
We’ll help you understand your closing costs, final documents, and what to expect on closing day. Then it’s time to celebrate — you’re officially a homeowner.
First-Time Buyer? We’ve Got You.
First-time buyers often have unique questions, concerns, and needs. Our team is here to explain:
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What down payment assistance programs may be available to you
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How much you really need to save
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What your credit score means (and how to improve it)
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What happens at each stage of the process
We’ll give you the confidence to move forward — and the support to make smart, informed decisions.
Resources for Buyers
Want to dive deeper? Check out these helpful links:
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FHA Loans
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Conventional Loans
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Down Payment Assistance
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The Mortgage Process
