Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Househunters, before you can start the “fun” part of searching for and touring potential homes, you must take the very important step of getting pre-approved for a mortgage (assuming, of course, you’re not paying cash for the home).

The first step is finding an experienced and trusted Realtor to guide you through this process. Your Realtor will be able to walk you through the pre-approval process step by step and even connect you with proven lenders they know and trust.

Did you know that many Realtors will not even look at offers (and sometimes even showing requests) from buyers without pre-approval. For that reason, agents are often reluctant to take clients out on tours before they have gone through the pre-approval process.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Your first step is to find an experienced, local lender to start the process of getting pre-approved for a mortgage. We are happy to help you with this step! The pre-approval process is actually quite simple and can usually happen in a 20-30 minute phone call or meeting. The option for online pre-approval exists, but it’s usually easier to have a call or meeting so the lender can get all of the needed answers while also gathering your personal information.

THE PRE-APPROVAL PROCESS

What is covered in this initial consultation? The lender will ask about your your current income, assets, and liabilities. They will also want to discuss your real estate goals so that they can tailor a mortgage to fit your needs.

Here’s a list of documents you will need for a lender to verify your income and assets for pre-approval:

• your two most recent tax returns and W2’s / 1099’s /1040s
• your two most recent pay statements
• copies of your bank / investment account statements
• copies of your driver’s license and military ID (if applicable)
• if applicable, award letters for retirement income, social security, disability, and SSI

Once your lender has verified your documents, they will able to provide a pre-approval letter and the fun can begin!

THE BOTTOM LINE

If you’re just starting to think about a new home, take the first step of getting pre-approved for a mortgage, today. It’s much easier than people realize! Be sure to use a trusted, local lender who is responsive, creative, and works evenings and weekends, to help get you into your dream home.

If you need a recommendation for a lender, or want to chat about the home buying process, please let us know by completing the form below or reaching out here. You can also download our First Time Home Buyers’ Guide here.

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