Krystyn Smink
Loan Officer
NMLS #2568385
Krystyn Smink
Loan Officer
NMLS #2568385
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Trusted Lending Partner
  • Loan Programs
  • First Time Home Buyers
  • Behind the Closing
  • Contact Me
  • Privacy Policy
  • More
    • Home
    • About Me
    • Trusted Lending Partner
    • Loan Programs
    • First Time Home Buyers
    • Behind the Closing
    • Contact Me
    • Privacy Policy
  • Home
  • About Me
  • Trusted Lending Partner
  • Loan Programs
  • First Time Home Buyers
  • Behind the Closing
  • Contact Me
  • Privacy Policy

Let's Make Your First Home Purchase Simple.


Buying your first home is exciting—but it can also feel like everyone is speaking a different language.


Pre-approvals. Earnest money. Closing costs. Debt-to-income ratios. It's a lot.

The good news? You don't have to figure it all out on your own.


My job is to walk you through every step, answer your questions (even the ones you think are silly), and make sure you feel confident before making one of the biggest purchases of your life.

This guide will help you understand the process from start to finish.


Step 1: Know Where You Stand Financially


Before you start scrolling Zillow at midnight, let's figure out what buying a home actually looks like for you.


That doesn't necessarily mean you need perfect credit or a huge down payment. It simply means understanding where you are today so we can build the right plan.


Check Your Credit


Your credit score plays an important role in the loan programs available to you—but don't panic if it isn't perfect.


Many buyers assume they need a 700+ score to buy a home. That's simply not true.

Depending on the loan program, you may qualify with a much lower score.


If your credit needs some work, I'll tell you exactly what I'd recommend before you spend months guessing.


Calculate Your Debt-to-Income Ratio


One of the biggest questions lenders ask is:


Can this monthly payment comfortably fit within your budget?


Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income.


Don't worry about trying to calculate it yourself—that's part of my job. I'll review everything with you and explain what it means in plain English.


Build Your Savings Plan


One of the biggest myths about buying a home is that you need 20% down.


In reality, many buyers qualify with much less, and some loan programs even offer down payment assistance.


We'll talk through:


  • Your down payment options
  • Estimated closing costs
  • Available assistance programs
  • How much you'll actually need before closing


Step 2: Get Pre-Approved


Getting pre-approved is one of the smartest things you can do before shopping for a home.


It tells you:


  • What price range fits your budget
  • What your estimated monthly payment could look like
  • Which loan programs are available to you
  • That sellers can take your offer seriously


Even if you're still a few months away from buying, getting pre-approved gives you a roadmap.


Step 3: Start House Hunting


Now comes the fun part.


Once you're pre-approved, you can confidently start looking at homes that fit your budget instead of guessing what you might qualify for.


When you find "the one," we'll work closely with your real estate agent to keep everything moving smoothly.


Step 4: From Contract to Closing


After your offer is accepted, I'll guide you through:


  • Loan processing
  • Appraisal
  • Underwriting
  • Final approval
  • Closing day


I'll keep you updated throughout the process so you always know what's happening next.


Ready to Take the First Step?


Whether you're ready to buy now or you're just starting to explore your options, I'd love to help.


Click Apply Now to get pre-approved, or reach out with your questions. There's never any pressure — just honest advice and guidance.

  • Privacy Policy

Krystyn Smink NMLS #2568385

Ksmink@gershman.com

(208) 602-3331

Copyright © 2024 Krystyn Smink - All Rights Reserved.


Gershman Mortgage: NMLS #138063


Equal Opportunity Housing:
We are an equal opportunity lender. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin in the sale, rental, or financing of housing.

Not a Commitment to Lend:
The information provided on this site is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to approval, and rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Lending decisions are made based on underwriting guidelines and creditworthiness.

Opinions and Information:
The opinions expressed on this website are those of Krystyn Smink, Mortgage Loan Originator, and do not represent the views or guarantees of Gershman Mortgage. While we strive to provide accurate information, the content on this site should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. Always perform your own research and consult with professionals before making any financial decisions.

Research and Verification:
All information provided through our website is based on our understanding at the time of publication. Loan products, rates, and terms may change, and you should verify all information with us before making any decisions.

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