At OPTIST, we believe buying a home is more than a transaction — it’s the foundation of your financial future. Our OPTIST Advantage Approval™ process gives you the edge in competitive markets by providing upfront underwriting, so your offer carries nearly the strength of cash. Combined with personalized loan strategies, we help you buy with confidence.
Smart Loan Options for Every Buyer
First-Time Buyer? We’ve Got You Covered
Prepare smart. Download our free OPTIST First-Time Buyer Checklist to know what to expect, what documents you need, and how to become a stronger offer.
Q1: Do I need 20% down to buy a home? No — 20% down is not required. OPTIST offers FHA loans with as little as 3.5% down, VA loans with zero down for veterans and active-duty military, and USDA loans with 100% financing in eligible areas. Conventional loans can start at 3–5% down, depending on qualifications.
Q2: What makes OPTIST Advantage Approval™ different from a pre-qual? Unlike a pre-qualification, OPTIST Advantage Approval™ goes through Desktop Underwriter (DU) and is reviewed by an underwriter upfront. This gives you nearly the strength of a cash offer — a big advantage in competitive markets.
Q3: How fast can OPTIST close a loan? Our streamlined process, combined with upfront underwriting, helps us close loans faster than many traditional lenders. Most purchase loans can close in as little as 21–30 days, depending on the loan program and documentation.
Q4: Can I qualify for a home loan if I’m self-employed or an investor? Yes. OPTIST specializes in solutions for self-employed borrowers and real estate investors, including DSCR loans that qualify properties based on cash flow instead of personal income.