Common questions, clear answers

What does US Home Portal do?

We're an independent mortgage education and referral platform. We help homebuyers, homeowners, and real estate investors understand their financing options, prepare for the loan process, and connect with licensed mortgage professionals who match their situation. We don't originate loans or sell mortgage products directly.

Is there a cost to use your services?

No. Our consultations and educational resources are completely free. We earn referral fees from our network of vetted professionals, which means our guidance stays independent and unbiased — we have no incentive to push you toward any particular lender or product.

Are you a mortgage lender or broker?

No. We are not a lender, bank, or brokerage. We educate you on your options and connect you with licensed mortgage professionals who can serve your specific needs. Any financing decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed professional.

What states do you serve?

We connect borrowers with licensed professionals in all 50 states. Visit our Service Areas page to learn more about specific markets.

How do I know if I'm ready to buy a home?

General indicators include stable credit, income, savings, and employment — and a plan to remain in the area for several years. Everyone's situation is different, which is why we offer free consultations to help you assess your readiness and understand what lenders typically evaluate. This is general information only and not a substitute for advice from a licensed professional.

What credit score do I need to buy a home?

Requirements vary by loan type. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum, with better rates generally available at higher scores. FHA loans may go as low as 580 with 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down. VA and USDA loans have their own requirements. These are general thresholds — your actual eligibility depends on your full financial profile and the lender you work with.

How much do I need for a down payment?

Down payment requirements depend on the loan program. Conventional loans can go as low as 3%, FHA is typically 3.5%, and VA and USDA loans offer zero-down options for eligible borrowers. Down payment assistance programs are also available in most states. The right amount for your situation is something a licensed mortgage professional can help you determine.

What's the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Pre-qualification is an informal estimate based on self-reported information — useful for ballparking, but not typically taken seriously by sellers. Pre-approval involves a lender verifying your income, assets, and credit, and issuing a conditional commitment letter. In competitive markets, a pre-approval letter is generally expected before making an offer.

How long does the homebuying process take?

From accepted offer to close, most purchase loans take 21–45 days depending on loan type, lender, and documentation turnaround. The search process before that varies — some buyers find a home quickly, others take months. These are general timeframes and will vary based on your specific transaction.

When does it make sense to refinance?

Common reasons homeowners refinance include securing a lower interest rate, switching from an adjustable to a fixed rate, accessing home equity, or removing mortgage insurance. Whether refinancing makes sense for you depends on your current rate, remaining loan term, estimated closing costs, and how long you plan to stay in the home. We recommend speaking with a licensed mortgage professional to run the numbers for your specific situation.

How much equity do I need to refinance?

For a rate-and-term refinance, most conventional lenders look for at least 5–10% equity. For cash-out refinancing, conventional programs typically require you to retain at least 20% equity after the cash-out. FHA and VA programs have their own thresholds. These are general guidelines — actual requirements depend on the lender and loan program.

How long does a refinance take?

Most refinances close within 30–45 days from application. Cash-out refinances on primary residences also include a mandatory 3-day right of rescission period after closing before funds are disbursed. Timelines vary by lender and transaction complexity.

What types of investment property loans are available?

Common options include conventional investment property loans (which use personal income to qualify), DSCR loans (which qualify based on the property's rental income), hard money loans (short-term and asset-based), and portfolio loans (held by the lender with more flexible terms). The right product depends on your financial profile, property type, and investment goals. A licensed mortgage professional can help you evaluate which programs you qualify for.

Can I get a mortgage for a short-term rental (Airbnb)?

Short-term rental financing is available, though not all lenders offer it. Some lenders will use projected short-term rental income to qualify the loan. Local regulations on short-term rentals vary significantly by city and county and can affect both financing eligibility and operating viability. We connect investors with lenders that specialize in this area, but we strongly recommend reviewing local STR ordinances with an attorney or qualified advisor before purchasing.

Is there a limit on how many investment properties I can finance?

Conventional financing backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac generally caps out at 10 financed properties per borrower. Beyond that threshold, investors typically move to portfolio loans, commercial financing, or non-QM products. Loan limits and eligibility rules change periodically — consult a licensed mortgage professional for current guidelines.