Question 1

Can I speak Spanish even if some documents are in English?

Accepted Answer

You can ask to speak Spanish with our lending and real estate team. Tell us which language you prefer for conversations and messages. Ask which documents, application screens, and automatic notices are available in that language; some may be in English. A translated explanation does not replace reviewing the document you will sign. Ask for clarification whenever you need it.

Question 2

Do “enganche” and “pago inicial” mean the same thing?

Accepted Answer

Here, both mean the down payment: the part of the purchase price you pay with your own contribution rather than the main mortgage. Closing costs are separate. The cash still needed at closing also reflects deposits already paid and applicable credits. Ask for a written breakdown so you can distinguish the down payment, closing costs, and total amount you still need to bring.

Question 3

Where do I start if I have questions about my credit?

Accepted Answer

Start by reviewing your credit reports and identifying information that may be incorrect. Checking your own report does not lower your credit score. Before a lender checks your credit, ask what kind of inquiry it will make and how it could affect your score. Then discuss your full situation, including income, debts, and savings. A score alone does not guarantee a loan or a particular rate.

Question 4

Can someone I trust join the conversation?

Accepted Answer

You can ask to include someone you trust, or ask to speak privately. Before discussing personal information, say who you want to participate and what you are comfortable sharing. If that person will also apply for the loan, contribute money, or own part of the home, ask about that role separately and what documents it requires. Do not assume that joining a conversation makes someone a borrower or an owner.

Question 5

I work for myself. How is my income reviewed?

Accepted Answer

Ask for a document list suited to your business and the loan being considered. Depending on the program, the review may include tax returns, business records, income stability, and expenses. Money deposited into an account is not automatically qualifying income. Explain how your business earns money and any recent changes so the loan professional can tell you what needs to be documented.

Question 6

How do I know whether down payment assistance fits my plans?

Accepted Answer

Ask whether the help is a grant or a loan, when repayment is required, and how it affects your total costs. For example, CalHFA’s MyHome is a deferred-payment loan, not simply free money. Eligibility, funding, and participating-lender requirements need to be confirmed for the specific program. Compare an option with assistance and one without it before deciding.

Question 7

Where should I send my documents?

Accepted Answer

Do not put Social Security numbers, account details, passwords, or financial documents in the public contact form. Ask the team to confirm the appropriate secure method before sending documents. If an unexpected message asks for documents or changes payment instructions, verify it through a phone number you already trust, rather than the number or link in that message. Confirm transfer instructions before sending money.

Question 8

How can I request an interpreter or housing counseling in my language?

Accepted Answer

Tell the provider which language you need before the appointment. Ask whether interpretation is available, which parts of the process it covers, whether there is a cost, and how your information will be protected. HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are another place to look for help; language availability varies by agency. Do not assume a relative has to interpret or that every document will be translated.

Question 9

Can I ask my homebuying questions in Punjabi?

Accepted Answer

You can write your question in Punjabi. Tell us which language you prefer for the conversation and written information. Before scheduling, ask us to confirm whether a Punjabi-speaking team member or interpreter is available. Punjabi information on this website does not mean every conversation or official loan document will be available in Punjabi.

Question 10

What should we ask before applying together?

Accepted Answer

Tell us who plans to apply and who plans to live in the home. Ask how each applicant’s income, debts, and credit will be reviewed for the particular loan. Before anyone signs as a co-borrower or co-signer, ask about repayment responsibility and property ownership; these are separate issues. Adding another applicant does not guarantee approval. Choose support participants separately from deciding who will borrow.

Question 11

What if I have little U.S. credit history?

Accepted Answer

Ask for a review of your credit record before assuming that you can or cannot qualify. Some loan paths can consider documented payment history outside traditional credit accounts, with specific eligibility and documentation requirements. Limited history, no credit score, and negative credit history are not the same situation. Ask which options fit your record and what information is needed; approval is not guaranteed.

Question 12

How do I explain what I need from a home?

Accepted Answer

Start with your own priorities: a comfortable monthly budget, number of rooms, step-free access, space to work, travel time, or nearby services. Separate what you need from what would be nice to have. Share only what is relevant to your choices. Your language does not tell us your household size, religion, income, or preferred community. You decide what matters to you.

Homebuying questions, in your language