The Mortgage Process
5. Get pre-approved Budgeting 1.
• Track past expenses
• Review credit card debt
• Create a budget
• Include regular savings
• Plan for future expenses
2. Meet with your Bell Bank Mortgage Loan Officer
Discuss your mortgage goals, such as a comfortable payment range, assets you have set aside for the purchase and the type of home you’re considering.
3. Double check your credit report
Report any errors to the credit reporting bureau and your lender.
4. Explore all down payment options
Bell partners with city, county and state programs to help new homebuyers increase buying power and buy in a shorter period of time.
Having an approved loan amount establishes how much house you can buy, and signals to sellers that you are a credit-worthy, serious homebuyer.
6. Hire a real estate agent
We can introduce you to local real estate professionals.
7. Remember, it’s not what you qualify for, it’s what you can afford
Monthly payments should not exceed 1/3 of your monthly gross income – but you may determine the amount you’re willing to commit to is less.
About Bell Bank Mortgage
Our roots are deep. In 1880, Bell Bank Mortgage was founded as Bell Mortgage in Minneapolis, Minnesota, by early city leader David C. Bell. Today, while we continue expanding our services in several other states and regions, our company remains the oldest and a trusted mortgage provider in Minnesota.
In 2011, Bell Mortgage became a part of what was then State Bank & Trust, the largest independent bank in the Midwest. One year later, the entire company rebranded as Bell, taking on a more unique name as a known and respected regional brand. One of the country’s largest privately owned banks, Bell embraces a simple yet powerful commitment to employees and customers. Our core values of family, unequaled service and giving back are at the heart of what we do.
An Award-Winning Company
Great Places to Work designation – Fortune magazine
Best-in-State Banks, Minnesota & North Dakota – Forbes magazine
Best Bank to Work For – American Banker magazine
Top 3 in Minnesota Residential Mortgage Lending Companies – Finance & Commerce
Community Impact Awards – Minnesota Business magazine
Integrity Award Finalist – Better Business Bureau of Minnesota & North Dakota
100 Best Companies to Work For – Minnesota Business magazine
Top 150 Workplaces – Minneapolis StarTribune
Giving Back To Our Community
• Bell Bank’s employees have given more than $30 million for 17 years to those in need through our unique Pay It Forward program See some of our favorite stories at: www.bell.bank/payitforward
• Chris is a proud sponsor of the Prior Lake boy’s hockey, basketball, fishing & trap shooting teams.
