By the end of the Review phase, we’ll be going over your first official loan documents, also called initial disclosures. We didn’t come up with that name ourselves, and when it comes to terms like this, the mortgage industry is not doing anyone favors. So let’s break it down.

Why They’re Called That

Initial disclosures are your first look at your loan as it currently stands, including rate, loan term, down payment, etc. They’re called disclosures simply because they’re disclosing, or reporting details. The word “initial” simply notes when in the process you’re receiving them. You’ll also have closing disclosures later in the process.Note: Disclosures are standardized forms, like tax forms, so they’ll look the same with any lender you work with.

Preventing Surprises Since Forever

What’s the deal with all the documents you ask? Simply put, disclosures prevent surprises. They’re our moment to check in and make sure everything looks good. We can’t move forward  until everyone is in agreement—and this is a good thing. The last situation we want is getting to the closing table and not liking the loan terms, or not having enough cash to close, if any.