How the Flow Mortgage Process Works
A Flow mortgage runs in 9 steps, from a free discovery call to funding day and the reviews after it. For most purchases, expect 2 to 4 weeks from application to approval, and 3 to 5 weeks for a refinance. You get an update at each of 14 defined milestones along the way, so you always know where your file stands.
What are the steps to get a mortgage with Flow?
- Discovery call. A free 15 to 30 minute call where we learn your goals, timeline and financial situation.
- Document collection. We send you a personalized checklist and you upload documents through our secure portal.
- Planning session. We look at your full financial picture and present mortgage strategies built for it.
- Pre-approval. We submit your application to the best-fit lenders and secure your pre-approval.
- Property search. You shop knowing what you qualify for and where your budget ends.
- Full approval. Once you find a property, we finalize the approval with your chosen lender.
- Conditions fulfilled. We work with everyone involved to satisfy the lender's conditions and prepare for closing.
- Funding day. Your mortgage funds, the deal closes, and you get the keys.
- Ongoing support. We monitor rates, run annual reviews and tell you when there's a move worth making.
How long does the mortgage process take?
For most purchases, expect 2 to 4 weeks from application to approval. Refinances typically take 3 to 5 weeks. Timelines stretch when documents arrive late, so the checklist in step 2 is where most of the time gets won or lost.
What documents do I need for a mortgage?
We'll send you a checklist built for your file, and it typically includes ID, income verification (pay stubs, notices of assessment, or business financials if you're self-employed) and the property details. We tell you exactly what's needed up front, so there are no last-minute requests.
How is working with Flow different from going to a bank?
| What you get | Flow Mortgage | Big bank |
|---|---|---|
| Lender options | A wide lender network | 1 lender only |
| Rate shopping | Done for you | You do the work |
| Advice | Built around your strategy | Built around the bank's products |
| Communication | 14 milestone updates | Call if you have questions |
| Renewal support | Proactive monitoring | An auto-renewal letter |
| Cost to you | Free (the lender pays) | Free |
How is Flow different from other mortgage brokers?
| What you get | Flow Mortgage | Other brokers |
|---|---|---|
| Frameworks | 5 frameworks built for specific situations | One size fits all |
| Education | Guides, calculators, videos | Limited resources |
| After closing | Annual equity analysis | Contact at the next renewal |
| Guarantees | 5 written guarantees | Varies |
| Response time | Same-day response | Varies |
What happens after my mortgage funds?
We stay on the file. Annual reviews and rate monitoring are standard, and you work with the same people who know your file. When your renewal gets close or your equity opens a better option, we reach out first.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the mortgage process take?
- For most purchases, expect 2 to 4 weeks from application to approval. Refinances typically take 3 to 5 weeks. We keep you updated at every milestone.
What documents do I need to provide?
- We'll send you a personalized checklist. It typically covers ID, income verification (pay stubs, notices of assessment, or business financials) and property information, all uploaded through our secure portal.
Do I pay for Flow's services?
- In most cases, no. The lender pays us, so the advice is free to you. In rare situations with specialized lending, we'll discuss any fees up front.
What is the first step?
- A free discovery call of 15 to 30 minutes. We learn your goals, answer your questions and outline the path forward.