1. What does a Loan Officer do?

A loan officer is a licensed mortgage professional who helps you secure the right financing for your home or investment.

Letticia Hernandez works with a wide network of lenders — including banks, mortgage companies, and credit unions — to match you with programs that fit your financial goals. From pre-qualification to closing, she’s your main guide, ensuring your loan process is smooth, efficient, and transparent.

2. Why should I work with a Loan Officer instead of applying online?

Online lenders may show appealing rates, but those offers often don’t tell the full story. Working with a loan officer means having a professional who understands the real numbers — fees, qualifications, and loan program differences.

Benefits of working with a loan officer:

• Knowledgeable: Years of lending experience and access to multiple banks.

• Responsive: Direct communication and consistent updates throughout your loan.

• Specialized: Focused solely on home lending, not general consumer credit.

Your loan officer saves you time, helps you avoid surprises, and finds the right program based on your individual needs — not just an advertised rate.

3. How does working with a Loan Officer save me time?

Applying for a mortgage can be complex, but a loan officer handles most of the heavy lifting for you.

Lety and her team:

• Identify loan programs that best fit your situation.

• Compare rates and terms across multiple lenders.

• Guide you through the pre-approval and application process.

• Coordinate with appraisers, title companies, and underwriters.

• Ensure documentation is complete and deadlines are met.

With an experienced loan officer, you don’t have to juggle multiple lenders or track rate changes. Everything is streamlined — so you can focus on your home, not the paperwork.

4. What documents will I need for my loan application?

Requirements vary by loan type, but most borrowers will need:

• Two years of residential history

• Two years of employment and income documentation

• Recent pay stubs or tax returns

• Bank statements and other asset information

• A list of debts and monthly obligations

For a personalized checklist, contact our team and we’ll help you prepare everything for a smooth start.

5. Is now a good time to refinance my home?

Refinancing can be beneficial if you’re looking to:

• Lower your monthly payment

• Pay off your home sooner

• Consolidate high-interest debt

• Fund home renovations or education costs

Market conditions and personal goals both matter when deciding if refinancing makes sense. Letticia Hernandez can help you evaluate current rates and create a plan that fits your long-term financial strategy.

6. Can I qualify for a mortgage if my credit isn’t perfect?

Absolutely. Many homebuyers are surprised to learn that you don’t need perfect credit to qualify for a mortgage. Different loan programs are designed to help a wide range of borrowers — including those who are rebuilding credit or have unique financial situations.

Lety works with multiple lenders and programs that take the full picture into account — not just your credit score. With the right guidance and preparation, there are often options available to help you move forward toward homeownership.

7. What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Pre-qualification is an initial estimate of how much you may be able to borrow, based on basic financial information.

Pre-approval is a more detailed process that includes verifying your income, credit, and assets. With a pre-approval letter, sellers know you’re a serious buyer and can confidently make an offer.

In short: pre-qualification gives you a general idea — pre-approval gives you real buying power.

8. How long does the loan process take?

The typical mortgage process varies depending on the loan type and how quickly documents are submitted.

Purchase loans often move faster since closing dates are tied to contracts. Refinances may take slightly longer depending on appraisal or title requirements. Lety and her team keep you informed at every milestone so you always know where your loan stands.

9. What costs should I expect at closing?

Closing costs usually range between 2% and 5% of the loan amount and may include:

• Appraisal and credit report fees

• Title insurance and recording fees

• Lender charges and prepaid taxes or insurance

You’ll receive a Loan Estimate early in the process and a Closing Disclosure at least three days before closing. Both outline every fee so there are no surprises.

10. What’s the difference between a fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)?

A fixed-rate mortgage keeps the same interest rate and payment for the entire term — offering stability and predictability.

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) typically starts with a lower rate for a fixed period, then adjusts based on market conditions.

Fixed-rate loans are ideal for long-term homeowners; ARMs can be useful for those planning to move or refinance within a few years.