By Jim McGowan, CFP®
When you’re buying a home, whether it’s your first or your fifth, the mortgage process can feel overwhelming. With all the moving pieces—credit scores, interest rates, underwriting timelines—having the right team in place is crucial.
That’s why I work closely with experienced professionals like Chris Fretz, Sr. Loan Officer at Movement Mortgage, to help my clients move through the home financing process like a pro. Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that can make all the difference, especially when he’s brought in early.
“The biggest advantage a buyer can give themselves,” Chris told me recently, “is starting the conversation early. That way, we can identify opportunities or challenges up front before they’re on a deadline or competing with multiple offers.”
Chris explains further:
- “It’s never too early to seek a preapproval. The expiration date can always be extended indefinitely. A lender can offer advice to improve credit scores or add to cash on hand that takes time to realize. If you seek approval only after finding a home, you’re stuck with the hand you’re dealt at that moment.”
- “People mistakenly think that an approval is simply to find the best rate and terms at the time they find a home. A proper preapproval is a financial planning tool as well as an insurance policy. In a competitive market the house finds you, not the other way around. Knowing what you can do before you find a home builds the confidence to make a strong offer. Having the courage to act quickly is a powerful position to be in.”
Here’s how I partner with Chris to give clients clarity, confidence, and momentum from the start:
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Clarifying the Financial Big Picture
We start by looking at how a new home and mortgage fits into your long-term goals. It’s not just about what the lender says you can afford; it’s about what makes sense for your life.
“Jim brings the bigger picture into the conversation,” Chris said. “It’s not just about qualifying for a loan—it’s about making sure the loan supports the client’s overall financial planning.”
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Helping You Understand What Lenders Look For
Chris and I walk clients through the key factors lenders consider—credit, debt-to-income ratios, employment history—and I help identify any red flags or areas that could be improved in advance.
“We love working with advisors because their clients are typically very prepared,” Chris noted. “They’re organized, thoughtful, and have already started thinking about how their mortgage fits into their bigger plan.”
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Preparing Documents in Advance
When you’re under contract, timing matters. I help clients gather tax returns, income documents, and asset statements before they even start house hunting, which streamlines the loan process.
“The cleaner the documentation, the faster and smoother we can move,” Chris shared. “Being proactive is one of the best ways to avoid unnecessary stress.”
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Aligning the Down Payment with Your Long-Term Plan
Some clients are tempted to put every dollar into the down payment. But that may not always be the smartest strategy. I help evaluate the trade-offs so you’re not house-rich and cash-poor.
Chris adds perspective here: “Cash is king only in the sense that not needing a mortgage is a competitive advantage. Debt can be restructured or refinanced while your money works for you in other investments. Just because you can pay in cash doesn’t mean you should.”
“Having Jim involved means we’re not just focused on getting the loan done—we’re focused on doing it the right way,” Chris said. “He makes sure the client’s liquidity and future needs are factored in.”
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Coordinating Directly with the Loan Officer
I don’t just hand off the file—I stay in touch with Chris and his team throughout the process. Especially for clients with complex compensation, RSUs, or upcoming career transitions, this coordination helps keep everything aligned.
“It’s night and day when we’re looped in early,” Chris emphasized. “We can get creative if needed, and we avoid surprises that could delay or derail the deal.”
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Ongoing Support After Closing
Once the keys are in your hand, I continue to monitor how your mortgage fits into your cash flow, tax picture, and investment strategy. Whether it’s planning for a refi or paying it off early, I help keep it in sync with your financial goals.
Get Us Involved Early—It Makes All the Difference
Buying a home is a major milestone, and the mortgage should support—not strain—your financial life. Chris and I both believe that collaboration is key, and the earlier we’re brought in, the more value we can deliver.
If you’re considering buying a home in the next 6 to 12 months, now is the perfect time to have a conversation. Let’s build a smart, coordinated plan—together.
Ready to start the conversation?
📅 Click here to schedule a quick call with me.
📍 Virtual meetings available for anyone throughout the United States. Serving local clients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Rahway, Lansdale, North Wales, Gwynedd, West Point, Doylestown, Blue Bell, Montgomery and Bucks County.
Apollon Financial, LLC (“Apollon”) provides advice and makes recommendations based on the specific needs and circumstances of each client. Apollon Financial is not affiliated with Movement Mortgage, or Chris Fretz. Their thoughts and opinions are independent of those of Apollon. The information contained herein is intended for information purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. Please consult a licensed professional before making investment, tax, or legal decisions.
