Steadfast Mortgage

Mortgage

Welcome to Your Consultation

About Me

Born and raised in Tennessee, I take pride in helping all types of homebuyers across my home state achieve their real estate goals. After graduating from Middle Tennessee State University, I began my career in mortgage lending.

I have extensive experience working with first-time homebuyers, real estate investors, and clients exploring non-traditional mortgage options — whether it's a primary residence, rental property, or a unique financing situation.

I believe that clear communication and exceptional customer service are the keys to a smooth mortgage experience. My focus is always on making sure clients feel informed, confident, and supported from application to closing.

6+
Years as a Licensed Mortgage Advisor
Chris Gibson
Chris Gibson
Senior Mortgage Advisor
C: 832.416.3008
chris@steadfastmortgage.com
NMLS# 2042700
steadfastmortgage.com
Chris Gibson

Pre-Approval

Pre-approval is your proof that you are a qualified buyer and are in a position to make a serious offer. My pre-approval process is thorough — I do everything necessary up-front to make sure there are no surprises that come up in underwriting.

Authorization to run a credit report
Most recent two year's tax returns (if self-employed or using rental income)
Most recent two year's W2s
Most recent month of paystubs
Most recent two month's bank statements
Additional documents may be required depending on your specific situation
Goal is to have completed within 24 hours

Get Pre-Approved

Pre-approvals are not one size fits all. While the goal is always to have it completed within 24 hours, it may take longer depending on your specific situation. Once it's complete, you'll know your exact buying power as well as see a dialed-in breakdown of closing costs and estimated payments.

Credit Check
Running credit while house hunting will not hurt your score. We only pull it once — valid for four months.
Documents
Vary depending on your employment.
Down Payment
We'll discuss options — what percent, gifts, using equity, etc.

If the pre-approval doesn't get you where you want to be, I can help form a plan to get you into the house you want. P.S. Co-signers don't hurt you.

Our Process Once Under Contract

Closing your loan on time and with ease is what we do. Here is an outline of what to expect next — we are your guides every step of the way.

1
Provide Financials
Hopefully most financials were supplied during pre-approval. We'll provide a list of any missing items needed to get started.
2
Lock Rate & Sign
We'll advise on current rates and discuss locking in. Preliminary figures are provided. Compliance disclosures are sent to sign, then everything goes to underwriting.
3
Due Diligence
We'll order the appraisal (typically under two weeks), assist with homeowners insurance, and work with the closing attorney to perform a title search.
4
Official Approval
Underwriting will officially approve you. We'll advise of any items needed from you before closing.
5
Final Figures
The week before closing, we work with the title company to fine-tune figures. A cashier's check or wire transfer is almost always required.
6
Closing Day
Set a time and place with your REALTOR®. Allot about an hour and prep your wrists — you'll sign about 60 pages. Then receive your keys!

How Mortgage Rates Work

When discussing your rate, I will quote you a range until the date we lock it in. Rates can change daily — or even several times a day — based on:

Market Volatility Economic Data (inflation, job reports) Federal Reserve Meetings

5 Most Important Factors That Determine Your Rate

Interest Rate vs APR

Interest Rate
Determines your monthly payment amount
↳ This is what your payment is based on
APR
Includes the interest rate plus certain closing costs — always higher than the rate
↳ Your payment is NOT based on the APR

The Top 3 Mortgage Myths

My Credit Isn't Good Enough
Credit scores range from 500 to 850 — the majority fall between 600 and 750. Your score will affect your rate and options, but this doesn't mean you can't purchase a home if you're on the lower end. Many loan programs allow below-average credit and are still affordable.
Owning Is More Expensive
Rents rise. Landlords can sell. Owning gives peace of mind. When you own, your monthly costs are mostly locked in for as long as you live there — and as your home's value goes up and principal goes down, that's equity in your pocket. There are also significant tax advantages.
You Have to Put 20% Down
20% is definitely not a requirement anymore. You can purchase a home with as little as 3% down. Putting 5–10% down opens up even more loan options. If you or your spouse have served in the military, VA loans require zero down.

Mortgage Process Do's + Don'ts

Do's

Availability

Keep financial records close at hand in case they're requested.

Income

Be aware your income will be verified via employers, tax documents, CPA, and/or the IRS. Hold onto paystubs and file taxes on time.

Assets

Save all account statements. Keep all numbered pages of each statement (e.g. page 8 of 8).

Keep Your Credit Shining

Make payments on time. Maintain at most a 40% balance-to-limit ratio on credit cards.

Understand Things Have Changed

Underwriters now request more documentation than in the past. If requests seem intrusive, remember: if they didn't need it, they wouldn't ask.

File Your Taxes on Time

Consult with me on whether to file before or after closing. IRS verification is required on all loans.

Don'ts

Apply for New Credit

Changes in credit can cause delays, change terms, or even prevent closing. Consult me first if you must open a new account.

Change Jobs

Employment changes can adversely affect loan approval — especially moving from salaried to contract or commissioned work.

Make Large Purchases

Buying or co-signing for a new car before buying a home is the most common reason buyers can't afford the home they want.

Make Undocumented Deposits

Large non-payroll deposits must be sourced — a copy of the check is usually required. Do not deposit large amounts of cash.

Be Afraid to Ask Questions

I am here to help you through the process — even long before you intend to buy.