The Process

How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

October 2025 · 4 min read

A pre-approval is a lender's written estimate of how much you can borrow, based on a real review of your finances. It is one of the most important first steps in buying a home.

Why it matters

You shop with confidence in the right price range
Sellers take your offer more seriously
You can close faster because much of the legwork is done

What the lender reviews

Expect to share income documentation, asset statements, and authorization for a credit check. The lender verifies your numbers and issues a pre-approval letter with your estimated amount.

Pre-qualification versus pre-approval

A pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell the lender. A pre-approval is stronger because the lender has actually reviewed and verified your information.

Our pre-approval takes about a minute to start online, and a loan officer follows up to finalize your letter.

This article is general education, not financial, legal, or tax advice, and not a commitment to lend. Loan programs, rates, and requirements vary by lender, county, and borrower and can change. Talk with a licensed loan officer about your specific situation.

Have questions about your situation?

Every borrower is different. Get a real answer in about a minute, or schedule a quick call with a loan officer.

Get Started Schedule a Call

Keep reading

The Process

Closing Costs: What to Expect and How to Plan

Closing costs typically run 2% to 5% of the loan amount. Here is what they cover, who pays them, and ways to reduce what comes out of your pocket.

5 min read

The Process

What Is PMI and How Do You Avoid It?

Private mortgage insurance protects the lender, not you, and adds to your payment. Learn when it applies, how to remove it, and how to avoid it altogether.

4 min read

The Process

The Mortgage Process, Step by Step

From the first conversation to keys in hand, here are the six stages of a mortgage so you know exactly what to expect and when.

5 min read