Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Physician Loan

Looking to secure a physician loan for your home purchase? This comprehensive guide walks dentists through each stage of the physician loan application process, from preparation to closing.

Phase 1: Preparation (2-3 Weeks Before Application)

Gather Essential Documentation

• Dental degree (DDS/DMD) verification
• Dental license or permit number
• Employment contract or offer letter
• Last 2-3 months of pay stubs (if employed)
• Bank statements (2-3 months)
• Student loan documentation
• Tax returns (if self-employed)
• Residency/fellowship information (if applicable)

Phase 2: Research and Selection (1-2 Weeks)

Compare Lender Programs

• Down payment requirements
• Interest rates
• Loan limits
• Geographic availability
• Student loan treatment policies
• Closing cost estimates

Evaluate Multiple Offers

• Request quotes from 3-5 lenders
• Compare total closing costs
• Review rate lock periods
• Assess lender experience with dentists

Phase 3: Pre-Qualification (24-48 Hours)

Initial Application Steps

1. Complete basic information form
2. Provide preliminary documentation
3. Authorize credit check
4. Receive initial loan amount estimate
5. Get pre-qualification letter

Key Information Needed

• Desired loan amount
• Preferred down payment
• Property type interest
• Employment status
• Basic financial overview

Phase 4: Full Application (1-2 Days)

Complete Formal Application

1. Submit detailed financial information
2. Provide all required documentation
3. Sign necessary disclosures
4. Pay application fees (if required)
5. Choose rate lock option

Additional Documentation Required

• Asset verification
• Income verification
• Student loan information
• Explanation of any credit issues
• Gift letters (if using gift funds)

Phase 5: Underwriting (1-2 Weeks)

Underwriting Process

1. Lender reviews all documentation
2. Employment verification
3. Asset verification
4. Student loan analysis
5. Credit history review

Common Underwriting Requests

• Additional bank statements
• Letter of explanation for credit items
• Updated pay stubs
• Verification of employment
• Student loan documentation

Phase 6: Property Selection and Appraisal (1-2 Weeks)

Property Requirements

• Submit purchase agreement
• Schedule home inspection
• Order appraisal
• Review property insurance options
• Verify property eligibility

Appraisal Process

1. Professional appraisal ordered
2. Property inspection completed
3. Comparable sales analyzed
4. Final value determined
5. Review appraisal report

Phase 7: Final Approval (3-5 Days)

Clear Conditions

• Address any underwriting conditions
• Submit updated documentation
• Verify no changes in employment
• Confirm closing details
• Review final loan terms

Pre-Closing Requirements

1. Schedule closing date
2. Arrange down payment transfer
3. Obtain homeowner’s insurance
4. Review closing disclosure
5. Schedule final walkthrough

Phase 8: Closing (1 Day)

Closing Day Checklist

• Bring valid photo ID
• Provide proof of insurance
• Have certified funds ready
• Allow 1-2 hours for signing
• Review all documents carefully

Post-Closing Tasks

1. Get copies of all documents
2. Change utilities
3. Update address
4. Store documents securely
5. Schedule first payment

Tips for a Smooth Process

Do’s

• Respond quickly to requests
• Keep copies of all documents
• Maintain consistent employment
• Stay in touch with your loan officer
• Monitor your credit carefully

Don’ts

• Make large purchases
• Change jobs during process
• Open new credit accounts
• Make large deposits without documentation
• Miss payment deadlines

Timeline Overview

Typical physician loan process timeline:

• Preparation: 2-3 weeks
• Application to pre-approval: 1 week
• Underwriting: 1-2 weeks
• Appraisal and final approval: 2 weeks
• Closing: 1 day Total: 4-6 weeks average

Next Steps

Ready to start your physician loan application?

1. Gather your documentation
2. Check your credit report
3. Compare lender options
4. Connect with a specialized loan officer on DentistMortgageLoan.com – click below!