Our Process · NMLS #2656628

From Pre-Approval to Keys. No Surprises. No Chasing Us Down.

Too many lenders go quiet after you apply. Ken does not work that way. You get a real conversation up front, a pre-approval within 24 hours once your documents are in, and weekly milestone updates so you always know exactly where your loan stands, from day one to closing day.

📅 Start With a Conversation Apply Now →

24-hour pre-approvals (with docs) In-house underwriting Weekly milestone updates Retired U.S. Navy veteran

Ken Powell

Mortgage Loan Officer · Fairway Home Mortgage

NMLS #2656628 · Equal Housing Lender

Step by Step

Your Complete Mortgage Roadmap.

Every step from the first conversation to closing day, and what Ken does at each one so you are never in the dark. Ken asks questions first to identify your need or pain point, then puts his knowledge and problem solving to work.

1️⃣

Book a Free Consultation

Before you apply for anything, you and Ken get on a call. Fifteen minutes. You tell him your goals, whether that is buying a home, refinancing, or investing, and he tells you what programs you likely qualify for, what it will cost, and what documents you will need. No obligation and no sales pitch. Just honest information so you can make a good decision.

Free · 15 minutes

2️⃣

Get Pre-Approved

Submit your documents through the secure portal. Ken reviews your credit, income, and assets and issues your pre-approval letter within 24 hours. You will not just see one option. Ken shows you your loan scenarios side by side so you choose knowing the actual cost difference of each.

24-hour turnaround

3️⃣

Shop for Your Home

With your pre-approval letter in hand, you and your agent can move fast. A strong pre-approval gives your offer credibility with sellers. When you find a home you want to offer on, Ken updates your letter for that specific address and price, usually within hours.

Updated letters fast

4️⃣

Go Under Contract

The moment your offer is accepted, Ken moves. Full loan application, appraisal ordered right away, and the title company introduced so everything is aligned from day one. This is where slow lenders lose time. Ken does not wait.

Appraisal ordered immediately

5️⃣

Processing & Underwriting

Your file goes to the Fairway operations team and then underwriting, typically the longest stage at two to three weeks. Ken sends weekly milestone updates so you always know what stage your loan is in and what, if anything, is still needed. When underwriting issues conditions, he responds fast.

Weekly updates

6️⃣

Clear to Close & Closing Day

Once you get the clear to close, the team prepares your closing package. Ken sends your final Closing Disclosure and reviews every number with you before you sign, so there are no surprises at the closing table. Then the best day: sign the documents, the loan funds, and you get your keys.

🎉 Welcome home

What Makes This Different

Three Things That Set the Process Apart.

⚡

Pre-Approval in 24 Hours

Once you submit your documents, you have a pre-approval letter in 24 hours. Not three days, and not a vague promise to get back to you. In a competitive market, that speed wins offers.

🏦

In-House Underwriting

Fairway underwrites most files in house rather than brokering them out to another institution. Fewer handoffs mean fewer delays and faster answers when a condition comes up.

🧭

Options, Not a Pitch

Ken compares your loan scenarios side by side with real numbers, not just the option that is easiest to sell. His job is to educate you so you can make an informed decision that fits your goals.

What You Will Need

Document Checklist. Start Gathering These Now.

Having these ready before your pre-approval call saves time and lets Ken issue your letter faster. He will tell you exactly what else is needed based on your specific situation.

💼 For W-2 Employees

Last 2 pay stubs (most recent)
W-2s from the last 2 years
Federal tax returns, last 2 years, all pages
Bank statements, last 2 to 3 months, all accounts
Photo ID (driver's license or passport)
Social Security number for the credit pull
Employer contact info for employment verification
Retirement and investment account statements

📋 For Self-Employed / 1099 Borrowers

Federal tax returns, last 2 years, personal and business
Year-to-date profit and loss statement
Business bank statements, last 2 to 3 months
Personal bank statements, last 2 to 3 months
Business license or CPA letter confirming self-employment
1099s from the last 2 years
Photo ID and Social Security number

Don't have everything yet? That is okay. Start the conversation now and Ken will tell you exactly what is needed and help you gather it. Many clients begin the process months before they are ready to buy, which puts them in the strongest possible position when they find the right home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Process Questions, Answered.

How long does it take to get pre-approved?+

Once you submit your documents through the secure portal, Ken issues your pre-approval letter within 24 hours. The initial consultation call takes about 15 minutes and you can book it online instantly.

How long does the full mortgage process take?+

From application to closing is typically 30 to 45 days once you are under contract. Getting your documents in early and responding quickly to underwriting conditions are the two biggest things that keep a file on schedule.

How will I know what stage my loan is in?+

Ken sends weekly milestone updates throughout the process, from application submission through clear to close. You will never have to call wondering where things stand. The updates come to you.

What happens if underwriting needs more documents?+

Ken contacts you right away and explains exactly what is needed and why. Most conditions are minor, such as a letter of explanation, an updated bank statement, or an employer verification. He guides you through fulfilling each one quickly so the process stays on track.

Can I lock my interest rate before going under contract?+

Yes. Once you are pre-approved, Ken can discuss rate lock strategies with you, including locking early if rates are favorable or floating if the outlook suggests rates may improve. He explains the tradeoffs and helps you decide based on current market conditions and your timeline.

Do I need a real estate agent to work with Ken?+

No. Many clients come to Ken first and then find an agent. As a former Realtor himself, Ken has strong relationships with agents across Maryland and Virginia and can make introductions. He can also work with any agent you have already chosen. His job is to make your agent's job easier, not harder.