8 Steps to Homeownership

April 2026

<p>8 Steps to Homeownership</p>

The Mortgage Process

Knowing the steps in the mortgage process before making an offer can better prepare you for your purchase and save you time, money, and stress. We’re here to help you learn about your options and what to expect when you buy a home.

STEP 1: Get conditionally approved.

Apply online to get conditionally approved and find out what you can afford. While a conditional approval isn’t required, it’s useful especially if you want to know whether you’re financially ready to buy a home and how much you could potentially afford.

Talk with a mortgage loan officer (MLO) to understand your mortgage options, learn how much to put down, and get all your questions answered.

STEP 2: House hunt and make an offer.

With your conditional approval in hand, you’re well qualified to make a serious offer. Once you have found your dream home and are ready to make an offer, review your planned offer with your MLO before submitting it to the owner of the property. Your realtor will help with this.1

STEP 3: Complete your loan application online.

Gather information about you, your finances, and the property. Our online application makes it easy to submit the necessary information online, reducing paperwork and hassle. If you need help with your application, contact your MLO.

STEP 4: Application processing.

KeyBank’s loan processing team will review your application and, based on what you’ve provided, determine if more information is needed. An appraiser may visit the property to determine its value. If any additional information is required, you’ll receive a list of follow-up items.

STEP 5: Receive initial loan approval.
Next, KeyBank’s underwriting team reviews your application, the property appraisal, and other financial details to confirm that you are eligible for the loan.
STEP 6: Prepare for your loan closing.

Your loan approval might have some conditions that you need to complete before signing for your loan, such as obtaining property insurance. A title company or attorney will work with KeyBank’s team of professionals to prepare the mortgage note, deed, and title work required to transfer the property.

STEP 7: Close and sign final paperwork.

Working with a title company or attorney, you’ll sign your loan paperwork. Any additional down payment and closing costs will be due at this time, if applicable.

STEP 8: Get the keys to your new home!
After the paperwork is collected and final arrangements have been made, you will receive the keys to your new home. KeyBank’s closing team will make sure that the property is legally transferred and purchase funds are given to the seller.
Congratulations!
You’re now a homeowner. If you need anything in the future, our team of experts would be happy to help you, whether you are exploring funding options for home improvements and upgrades or considering buying another property.

Related Content

Visit the Financial Wellness Center to read more expert advice about buying a home, managing your finances, and more.

HOMEOWNERSHIP

open house questions to ask real estate agents

open house questions to ask real estate agents

HOMEOWNERSHIP

what should you expect when buying a house?

laughing on the couch
what should you expect when buying a house?

HOMEOWNERSHIP

insider tips for buying a new home

insider tips for buying a new home

NOTICE: This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Conditions and restrictions may apply. Information and offer are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit and collateral approval. Not all loans or products are available in all states.

1

KeyBank does not offer real estate services.

Content provided for informational and educational purposes only and is in no way to be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice. We cannot and do not guarantee their applicability or accuracy in regards to your individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes. We encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding all personal financial issues.

By selecting any external link on Key.com, you will leave the KeyBank website and jump to an unaffiliated third-party website that may offer a different privacy policy and level of security. The third party is responsible for website content and system availability. KeyBank does not offer, endorse, recommend or guarantee any product or service available on that entity's website.

NMLS# 399797. Equal Housing Lender.