Searching for a new home or considering a mortgage refinance? USCCU offers personalized home loan solutions just for you.
Important Notice on Marketing Offers
After submitting your loan application, you may receive an increased number of marketing solicitations from other lenders. These offers are not initiated by Universal City Studios Credit Union but are typically generated by credit bureaus when a credit inquiry is made.
If you would like to opt out of prescreened credit or insurance offers, you can do so by:
- Calling 1-888-5OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688) or
- Visiting www.optoutprescreen.com
You will have the option to opt out for five years or permanently. If you choose the permanent option, you will receive a Notice of Election to Opt-Out Permanently, which must be signed and returned to complete your request. Please note that while your request will be processed within a few days, it may take several months to see a reduction in solicitations.
For more information, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre17.shtm
Are you ready to buy?
Juggling the demands of work and busy family schedules has become commonplace for many people. There is little time to step back and take a look at what you have achieved and what you still want to accomplish. Deciding to buy a home provides the opportunity to carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages, analyze your employment stability, review your credit reports, and evaluate your financial status.
Renting VS. Owning
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Flexibility
Renting provides the flexibility to relocate easily, making it suitable for individuals with dynamic lifestyles or uncertain job situations.
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Maintenance Responsibility
Renters typically have lower maintenance responsibilities, as landlords are responsible for property upkeep and repairs.
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Financial Flexibility
Renting may require a lower upfront cost than homeownership, as tenants usually don't have to cover property taxes or homeowners insurance.
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Equity Building
Homeownership allows you to build equity over time, potentially leading to financial gains when selling the property or using it for other investments.
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Personalization and Stability
Homeowners have the freedom to personalize their space, creating a sense of stability and belonging in their community.
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Tax Benefits
Homeownership often comes with tax advantages, such as deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes, providing potential financial benefits.

Before you start house hunting, take advantage of getting pre-qualified or pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-qualification gives you a quick estimate of how much you may be able to borrow based on basic financial information—no paperwork required—helping you understand your general budget.
For a more accurate and stronger position, pre-approval involves a detailed review of your income, credit, and financial documents, resulting in a formal commitment from UCSCU. This not only clarifies your exact price range but also shows sellers you’re a serious buyer, reducing surprises and speeding up the homebuying process.
Learn More about pre-approval for a loanThe Mortgage Loan Process
Step 1: Loan application
Your mortgage loan application can be taken over the telephone, via fax, or online.
Step 2: Loan processing
After the application is received, it will be reviewed to make sure the information is complete and consistent.
Step 3: Underwriting
Once all documents are gathered, your loan package will be submitted to an underwriter who will evaluate your loan information as well as your ability to make the monthly loan payments.
Step 4: Loan approval
You will be asked to provide any additional information needed by the underwriter and notified of the conditions which must be met in order for your loan to close and fund.
Step 5: Draw closing documents
The legal documents that are to be signed in escrow will be ordered.
Step 6: Closing
A title agent reviews the settlement statement with you. This document includes all the final costs for the purchase.
Step 7: Loan documents return to lender
The lender receives the signed documents and verifies all conditions have been met and that the figures are accurate.
Step 8: Loan records
The funds are disbursed and the transaction is recorded at the County Recorder's office. *purchase( The home is now officially and legally yours. You receive the keys to your new home!
Required Documentation
The mortgage loan process may vary depending on the choices you make before the final closing. It is generally recommended that you meet with your lender for a loan pre-approval to ensure you know the loan amount for which you are qualified before you begin touring potential homes. During the pre-approval process, the majority of documents necessary to process and secure your mortgage will be gathered and reviewed.
Learn More about the loan processHelpful Information about the mortgage loan process
Glossary of Mortgage Terms
Breaks down common terms and definitions to help you better understand the home loan process.
Learn More about Owning a houseTaking Title
Explains the different ways to hold title when buying a home, helping you understand the legal and financial implications of each option.
Learn More about Owning a houseChoosing the Right Mortgage
Provides an overview of various mortgage options to help you find the loan that best fits your needs and goals.
Learn More about Owning a houseClosing Costs
Outlines the various closing costs associated with finalizing a home loan to help you understand what to expect on closing day.
Learn More about Owning a houseRefinancing
Potentially lower your interest rate, adjust your loan terms, and save on your monthly payments or overall loan cost.
Learn More about Owning a houseHome Equity Lines of Credit
Unlock the value of your home with competitive rates and convenient access to funds for your financial needs.
Learn More about Owning a houseTypes of Mortgage Loans
Explore UCSCU's diverse mortgage options available which are tailored to fit your home financing needs.
Learn More about Owning a houseYour Credit History
Understand how your credit history impacts your financial opportunities and learn how to build or rebuild it.
Learn More about Owning a house