What is a Mortgage Pre-Approval?
When you are pre-approved for a mortgage, it means a lender has determined how much you can borrow, the loan programs that you may qualify for, as well as the interest rate you qualify for. This assessment is based on things like credit score, income, debts, and employment history. You’ll generally get a written statement from a lender stating this information, which can be used to give sellers confidence that you’ll be approved for a loan after they accept your offer. Most pre-approval letters are good for 60 to 90 days.

Why Should You Get Pre-Approved?
There are many reasons why you should get pre-approved. The most important reason is that you will get an accurate idea of how much home you can afford. This can help to target your home search and ensure you only look at houses that are truly in your price range. A pre-approval letter also helps you prove to real estate agents and sellers that you’re a credible buyer and able to act fast when you find the home you want to buy. Most sellers even require buyers to submit a pre-approval letter with their offers, although having a pre-approval letter does not guarantee that your offer will be accepted by a seller. 

Does Pre-Approval Guarantee a Loan?
No. A pre-approval letter is not an offer to lend, a commitment to make a loan, or a guarantee of specific rates or terms. Regardless of pre-approval, a lender may require additional income and asset verification, as well as the satisfaction of other conditions, before extending you a loan. Pre-approval letters are subject to modification or cancellation if your financial situation or other conditions change. 

What information is typically needed in the Pre-Approval Process?

• Driver’s license
• Social Security Number (Allows lender to pull your credit)
• Paystubs – Last 30 Days
• W2s – Last two years
• Bank Statements – Last 60 Days (Please send the account that has your savings for closing)

• 401k Last Quarterly Statement (If applicable, this will show your available 401K balance)
• 401k Terms & Conditions (If applicable, this is a document that outlines the reasons you can withdraw funds )

• Student Loans – If you have student loans, please contact your student loan servicer and request a breakdown of all your repayment options in writing. You do not have to set a payment up yet but the lender needs to know the estimated amount in order to finalize your home loan approval.​
• Independent Contractor ONLY - 1099’s/ Last Two Years Tax returns

How Do You Find a Lender to Get Pre-Approved?
The good news is there is a lender for everyone. As I learn about you and your home-buying goals during the free consultation I will make recommendations on lenders who will be best suited to assist you in getting your own keys!

There are 3 very common (and expensive) mistakes I see people make far too often. I'll be covering those in this post. Hope you find them helpful! It doesn't matter if you are selling or buying, these should be avoided. As a home buyer, knowing these mistakes can help you better understand the mindset of sellers, and give you the tools to negotiate a better deal.

#1 Pricing
The price must be right. Home values are relative and hiring a professional to help you out is a wise decision. When it comes to over and underpricing you'll lose money either way, so get it right.

#2 Clutter
This is a BIG one, and you'd be surprised how many neglect this simple improvement. De-cluttering does not cost any money, only time, but well worth it. Owners often don't see the clutter because it's 'normal' to them. Invite a friend or neighbor over to point out the messy areas.

#3 Empty House
Empty rooms look and feel empty. This is not good when you are trying to sell a home. Make it feel like a home. You can stage your home, or if a room is empty, put a few pieces of furniture and/or some plants in there.

Still Have Questions?
That is where I come in, selling or buying a home is no simple process, and although I have tried to provide the important details, there's still so much more. Contact me today at 704-941-0624 for more information.
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