Buying a home in San Diego is one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever take—but let’s be honest, the mortgage process can feel like a marathon. If you’re looking for a San Diego mortgage broker, I’m Trevor Sanders, owner of SD-Loans, and I’m here to walk you through the typical mortgage timeline in San Diego—from that first phone call to finally holding the keys to your new home. I’ll also share my best tips to help you speed things up—because waiting? That’s nobody’s favorite.
💼 The Mortgage Timeline, Step by Step
Let’s break it down into simple steps so you can see exactly where you are and what’s coming next.
📞 Step 1 – Initial Call and Pre-Approval (1–3 Days)
This is where it all begins. You reach out, we talk, and I learn more about your goals. Within just a day or two, we can typically get you pre-approved.
Speed Tip:
Have your income documents, pay stubs, W-2s, and credit info ready. The faster we get the documents, the faster we move forward.
Related post: How to Qualify for a Mortgage in San Diego: Step-by-Step Guide
📝 Step 2 – Complete the Full Application (1–2 Days)
Once you’re pre-approved, the next step is submitting a full loan application. It’s pretty straightforward, especially with our easy online application system.
Speed Tip:
Block out an hour and knock it out in one sitting—trust me, it’s better than piecemealing it over a week.
📂 Step 3 – Opening Escrow (1–2 Days)
After your offer is accepted, escrow is opened. This is when the gears really start turning.
Speed Tip:
Stay in close contact with your real estate agent and escrow officer to ensure timelines don’t stall.
🔍 Step 4 – Underwriting (5–10 Business Days)
Now it’s our turn to dig into the details—verifying employment, income, assets, debts, and more. We’ll also order the appraisal during this time.
This is the part where the underwriter reviews your loan package with a fine-tooth comb. They may come back with conditions that need clarification or additional documents.
Speed Tip:
Think of underwriting like a checklist. The faster we check each box, the quicker we move toward approval.
✅ Step 6 – Conditional Loan Approval (1–3 Days)
At this point, you’re mostly there! You’ve received conditional approval—meaning you’re approved if you meet a few final requirements.
Speed Tip:
Don’t take your foot off the gas. Get those final documents in ASAP.
🔁 Step 7 – Resubmission & Final Underwriting Review (2–3 Days)
Once you’ve submitted your conditions, the underwriter gives everything one last look.
Speed Tip:
Double-check all your final submissions before sending. A missing signature can cause delays.
🟢 Step 8 – Clear to Close (CTC!) (1 Day)
Magic words, right? “Clear to Close” means everything’s approved, and we can move on to the final steps.
🖊️ Step 9 – Sign Docs with a Notary (1–2 Days)
Time to make it official. You’ll sign your final loan documents, typically with a notary either at escrow, at your home, or even via mobile notary services.
Speed Tip:
Schedule your signing ASAP. Don’t wait until the last minute.
💰 Step 10 – Funding (1 Day)
Once documents are signed and everything checks out, the lender releases the funds. Boom—you’re just one step away.
🔑 Step 11 – You Get the Keys! (Same Day or Next Day)
Congratulations! You officially own a home in beautiful San Diego. It’s time to celebrate and settle into your new space.
Related post: The Mortgage Pre-Approval Process in San Diego: Why It’s Crucial for Homebuyers
📊 The Total Timeline—How Long Does It Really Take?
In most cases, from pre-approval to keys in hand, the mortgage process takes 21 to 30 days. If everything goes smoothly—and you’re working with an experienced team like SD-Loans—it can happen even faster.
⚡ How to Speed Up Your Mortgage in San Diego
Here are my top tips to shave days (or even weeks) off your timeline:
🧾1. Be Document-Ready
Have your income, asset, and employment docs organized from day one.
📱 2. Be Responsive
The faster you reply to requests, the faster we close.
Related post: Why a Local Mortgage Broker Cares More About Your Home Loan Than a Big Bank Ever Will
🧠 3. Work With a Local Expert
Local knowledge matters. I know how to navigate San Diego’s unique real estate market like the back of my hand.
🧭 4. Avoid Big Financial Moves
Don’t switch jobs, buy a new car, or open new credit cards during the process.
🏆 5. Partner With SD-Loans
We streamline the process with experience, tech tools, and good old-fashioned communication.
Final Thoughts from Trevor Sanders
Every homebuyer’s journey is different, but the goal is always the same: get you home, smoothly and stress-free. At SD-Loans, I take that personally. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, we tailor the process to YOU.
Ready to start your San Diego home journey or just have some questions? Shoot me a text or call at 619-855-5061. Let’s get those keys in your hand! 🔑
Keys In Hand, New Chapter Unlocked 🔑
