Sell Your Home in Idaho Falls | Grider & Peterson Real Estate - Grider and Peterson Real Estate Team
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The Home Loan Process

Buying a home is easier when you know your numbers. We’ll connect you with trusted local lenders, help you get pre-approved, and use that approval to craft a winning home‑buying plan.

 

 

Steps to Sell Your Home

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Get Ready & Get Pre‑Approved

Review income, debts, and credit; target a comfortable payment and down payment. Apply with a lender and receive your pre‑approval letter to guide your search.

Choose Your Loan & Budget

Compare Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA options and pick your down payment so your monthly fits your goals.

View recommended mortgage specialists

Shop, Offer & Finalize

Tour homes with a clear plan aligned to taxes/HOA/insurance. After your offer is accepted, lock your rate, the lender orders appraisal, and underwriting verifies docs while we coordinate timelines.

Close & Get the Keys

Sign final disclosures, bring cash to close (down payment + closing costs minus credits), and celebrate your new home.

Idaho Falls Real Estate Market Update

Make a smart move with real numbers from our East Idaho housing market update. We track price, demand, and inventory—then turn it into an action plan for your sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Pre-qualification is a quick “likely to qualify” estimate; pre-approval verifies income/credit/assets and is stronger when you make an offer. Neither is a guaranteed loan offer.

Is there down-payment or closing-cost help in Idaho?

Yes—Idaho Housing and Finance Association offers programs that can cover a portion of down payment/closing costs (commonly up to 8% of price), and in some cases buyers may contribute as little as $500 of their own funds—subject to program rules and lender approval.

What credit score do I need to buy a home?

It depends on the loan: Conventional typically requires at least 620; FHA allows 3.5% down at 580+ (10% down if 500–579); VA/USDA don’t set a single nationwide minimum but lenders use overlays. Your lender will evaluate full credit and debt picture.

What is a mortgage rate lock—and when should I do it?

A rate lock holds your interest rate for a set time (e.g., 30–60 days or more) so it won’t change before closing, assuming your application and timeline don’t change. Ask your lender about fees or extensions.

Do I have to pay mortgage insurance?

With Conventional loans, PMI is usually required if you put less than 20% down; you can request removal around 80% loan-to-value (and it auto-terminates at 78% in many cases). FHA loans include mortgage insurance with different rules.

What other costs should I plan for at closing?

Beyond the down payment, budget lender fees, appraisal, title/escrow, prepaid taxes/insurance, and daily interest. Some costs are negotiable or can be covered by seller credits or assistance programs—ask your lender for a Loan Estimate.

What happens after my offer is accepted (appraisal, underwriting, clear-to-close)?

Typically you lock your rate, the lender orders an appraisal, and underwriting verifies your docs before issuing a clear-to-close; timelines vary by file and program. (That sequence mirrors CFPB guidance on rate locks and standard lender practices.) 
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