Financing a Home in Portland
What You Need to Know Before You Start Shopping
We get it—shopping for homes is the fun part. But behind every great house hunt is a solid financial plan. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to a new space, or using equity to make a big move, understanding your financing options is essential to a smooth (and successful) buying experience.
Let’s break down what to expect—and how we can help guide you through it.
Why Pre-Approval Matters
Before we start touring homes, the most important step is getting pre-approved with a lender. This does two things:
It tells you what you can afford based on your income, credit, and down payment.
It tells sellers you're serious, which can give you a big advantage in a competitive market.
A pre-approval letter isn’t just a formality—it’s often the difference between having your offer taken seriously or passed over.
What You’ll Likely Need for Pre-Approval
Getting pre-approved means sharing some financial documents with your lender. Every situation is a little different, but most lenders will ask for:
Recent pay stubs (last 30 days)
W-2 forms and/or 1099s (last 2 years)
Federal tax returns (last 2 years)
Bank statements (last 2 months)
Proof of additional income (bonuses, child support, rental income, etc.)
Valid ID and Social Security Number (or ITIN)
Special Financing Situations? We Know People.
Not every borrower fits the typical lending mold—and that’s okay. If you’re a DACA recipient, use an ITIN, are self-employed, or have other unique circumstances, we work with trusted lenders who specialize in those loan programs and understand the nuances.
The same goes for folks who are:
Using equity from a current home to bridge to another
Exploring 1031 exchanges as part of a real estate investment strategy
Buying with cash and needing to provide proof of funds (bank or brokerage statements, letters from financial institutions, etc.)
Whatever your situation, we’ll help connect you with the right people who can make it work.
Let’s Talk Strategy—Not Just Numbers
We don’t just hand you off to a lender and wish you luck. We’ll help you understand how different loan types affect your monthly payment, what to expect with closing costs, and how to structure a strong offer that makes sense financially and competitively.
Whether you're planning to buy now or just gathering info for the near future, having a solid financing plan in place is the first step toward buying with clarity and confidence.
Kim Campbell & Francisco Salgado
Want to Talk Through Your Options?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or prepping for a big financial move, we can help you figure out what kind of loan might work best for your goals—and connect you with local lenders who are responsive, thoughtful, and solution-oriented. Call or text us at 503-951-8547 to get started.
