Think of intent to proceed as your commitment to a lender. It means you applied for a mortgage, maybe with a few lenders. Then, you compared Loan Estimates and chose one of the lenders for your home loan.
After sellers accept your offer to buy their home, you can apply for the mortgage.
Apply with a lender. Some homebuyers contact more than one.
Review the Loan Estimate. The lender will send you a three-page within three days after applying. For more info, check out our Loan Estimate Explainer.
Accept the offer by giving the lender your intent to proceed.