Getting Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved is an easier process that it might appear. The lender will ask for your tax returns for 2 years, bank statements, verification of employment, and consent to pull your credit, and maybe some other documentation along the way.

Who you work with in this process matters. Everyone shops the rates, for the most part unless there are some lender credits being offered the rates are generally competitive. As I have bought houses I have used a mortgage broker, these are people who have no allegiance to one bank but go out find the best rate and program for your needs. Having a pre-approval letter before looking for houses is the most ideal situation because you never know when you’re going to find a house you love and then you will really have to scramble to figure out how to get it done. It's never too early to put your real estate team together and get a plan.