If you’re thinking about buying a home, one of the smartest first steps you can take is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. But what exactly is a pre-approval and why does it matter?

1. It Tells You What You Can Actually Afford
Pre-approval gives you a clear, realistic idea of how much you can borrow based on your income, credit, and debts. That way, you’re not wasting time looking at homes outside your budget — or lowballing your own buying power.

2. It Shows Sellers You’re Serious
In a competitive market, sellers want to work with buyers who are ready to go. A pre-approval letter proves you’ve already had your finances reviewed by a mortgage professional and are prepared to make a strong offer. It sets you apart from buyers who haven’t taken that step.

3. It Protects You From Rate Increases
When you get pre-approved, most lenders will lock in your interest rate for 90 to 120 days. That means if rates rise while you’re house hunting, you’re protected — and if rates drop, you can still take advantage of the lower rate. Win-win.

4. It Helps You Move Faster When You Find the Right Home
Homes can sell fast — sometimes within days or even hours. With a pre-approval in hand, you can act quickly and confidently without having to wait for lender approval after finding the home you love.

The Bottom Line

Pre-approval puts you in control. It’s free, doesn’t commit you to anything, and sets you up to shop with confidence. Whether you’re buying your first place or your next one, it’s the best way to start strong.

Want to know how much you qualify for? Reach out today — I’ll walk you through it step by step and get you pre-approved with confidence.