The normal time it takes to process a mortgage loan is 30 days. As such, it has become the standard for purchase contracts to write in a closing date of 30 days out. A number of factors go into the amount of time it takes to process a loan, however. In some cases, the loan can be finished much sooner. In other cases, there can be difficulties that delay the loan processing. If you’re aiming for a rapid closing (perhaps because you need to vacate your current home or apartment quickly), here are some tips for how you can speed up the loan process:

1. Get pre-approved so you can lock in a rate

Before you go shopping for a home, it’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This allows you to know exactly how much you can afford to spend and diminishes the possibility that you will encounter problems with your qualifications during the loan process. To get pre-approved, you have to supply a lender with the specifics of your finances and permit a credit check. Make sure you tell the truth about your finances now so you get pre-approved for the right amount. You are not obligated to get your mortgage from the lender that pre-approves you, but it can speed up the process when it’s time to get the mortgage.

2. Prepare financial documents ahead of time

Once you have selected a lender and the loan process has begun, you will have to provide documentation that proves your financial situation. These documents usually include your last two years of W-2’s or tax returns, your last two paycheck stubs with year-to-date figures and bank statements for the last two months. You may also need to provide documentation of any bankruptcy settlements, divorce/separation papers, evidence of mortgage/rental payments and an irrevocable gift letter if part of your down payment is coming from a gift from a relative. It’s best to have all of these documents prepared and ready to turn in even before you initiate the loan process, as it may take some time for you to gather certain pieces. Your loan officer needs to gather all of the necessary information before presenting the loan to the underwriter. So the sooner you get your documents in, the faster your loan will be completed.

3. Return calls from your loan officer immediately

If your loan officer calls or emails, it usually means that you need to provide additional documentation or explain some part of your application. If your loan officer is unable to reach you, your loan will be held up until he or she does.

4. Provide additional documentation requested ASAP

If your loan officer does ask for additional documentation, turn it in as soon as possible. Having access to a fax machine is useful during the loan process so that you can forward paperwork quickly. Try to anticipate any documentation that might be necessary to complete your loan. For example, if you have an error on your credit report, assemble documentation to prove the error is incorrect and submit it before being asked.

5. Stay in contact with loan officer

The squeaky wheel gets the grease! Loan officers often deal with dozens of applications at a time, and yours can fall to the back of the line if you don’t check in once in a while. Call your loan officer for progress reports. If you have a deadline for the closing you’re trying to meet, say it upfront. In most cases, your lender will try to work with you to meet your needs.

—For more ways to save, spend, invest and borrow, visit MainStreet.com.