The mortgage process has a lot of moving parts. We answer the questions we hear most — in plain language, so you always know what to expect.
At START Mortgage, we believe you should never feel confused about the biggest purchase of your life. That's why we explain everything up front — before you sign anything.
Below you'll find answers to the questions we hear most from first-time buyers, move-up buyers, self-employed homeowners, and realtor partners. If you don't see your question here, book a free planning session and we'll answer it personally.
We're a licensed mortgage broker in Kissimmee, FL. We shop loan programs from multiple lenders to find the right fit for your situation. We're not a bank — we work for you.
"Jexayra was extremely pleasant to work with. She educated me on how to become ready for home ownership long before we started working together. I would definitely recommend her."— Verified client reviewRead more reviews
A mortgage broker works for you — not for a bank. Instead of offering one set of loan products, we shop programs from multiple lenders to find the right fit for your situation. That means more options and often better terms. START Mortgage is a licensed mortgage broker in Florida (NMLS# 2718409). Learn more about how it works
When you go to a bank, you see their loan products — and only theirs. When you work with START Mortgage, we compare programs from multiple lenders. We also provide personal guidance from start to finish. You work directly with your loan officer, not a call center. And we offer full service in English and Spanish. Meet Jexayra Rivera
A planning session is a free, no-obligation conversation where we review your financial picture together. You'll learn what you can afford, which loan programs fit your situation, and what your next steps are. If you're ready to move forward, we start the pre-approval process. If you need more time, you leave with a clear plan. Available in English or Spanish. Book your free planning session
Pre-approval starts with a completed application and a review of your income, assets, credit, and debts. We match you with the right loan program and issue a pre-approval letter — typically within 24 hours of a completed application. That letter shows sellers and realtors you're a serious, qualified buyer. Subject to credit and underwriting approval. Start your pre-approval
It depends on the loan program. FHA loans allow credit scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down. Conventional loans typically need 620 or higher. VA loans have no set minimum, but most lenders look for 580-620+. If your score needs work, we'll build you a roadmap to get mortgage-ready. Check your credit readiness
No. That's one of the biggest myths in homebuying. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down. Some conventional programs start at 3%. VA and USDA loans offer zero-down options for eligible buyers. We'll help you find the program with the lowest out-of-pocket cost for your situation. Programs are subject to eligibility and credit approval. See all loan programs
Our average close time is 21 days from the time your loan file is submitted. The full timeline from planning session to keys in hand is typically 45-60 days, depending on your situation. Getting pre-approved early helps speed things up.
You'll typically need: photo ID, last 2 years of tax returns, last 2 years of W-2s (or 1099s if self-employed), last 30 days of pay stubs, last 2 months of bank statements, and any other documentation related to income, assets, or debts. We'll give you a full checklist during your planning session so nothing is a surprise.
Yes. Self-employed buyers qualify for home loans every day. The documentation is a bit different — lenders typically look at 2 years of tax returns and may calculate your income differently. We work with lenders who understand self-employment and know how to present your application in the strongest way possible. Subject to credit and underwriting approval.
Pre-qualification is a quick, informal estimate based on what you tell us about your finances. Pre-approval is a deeper review — we verify your income, credit, and assets, and issue a letter that carries real weight with sellers and realtors. At START Mortgage, we focus on pre-approval because it gives you and your realtor confidence that your loan will close. What is pre-approval? Full guide
Yes. Jexayra Rivera is fully bilingual in English and Spanish. You can complete the entire mortgage process in whichever language you're most comfortable with — from your first planning session through closing day. This isn't just translation. Jexayra was born in Puerto Rico and understands the cultural side of homebuying. Todo el proceso, en tu idioma.
We offer a full range of loan programs from multiple lenders, including FHA Loans (as low as 3.5% down, credit scores starting at 580), Conventional Loans (as low as 3% down for qualified buyers), VA Loans (zero down for veterans and active military), USDA Loans (zero down in eligible rural and suburban areas), and refinance programs (rate-and-term and cash-out options). We compare options from multiple lenders to find the right fit for your situation. Programs, rates, and terms are subject to change. Not all products are available in all states. See all loan programs