Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval

Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval

You’ve heard the terms pre-qualification and pre-approval, but what do they mean? They are the same thing, right? Not quite! The terms have been used interchangeably, but their true definitions differ. We’re going to break it down and explain the difference between the two.

Pre-qualification

The very first step to take if you are ready to start your new home search is to get pre-qualified. This is a no-cost, no-commitment, 10-20 minute analysis that will give you a great starting point for your new home loan. You can do this in-person or on the phone with a loan officer, or in most cases complete an online form. You will need to provide some basic information such as income, current monthly debts and credit score, but typically you won’t need to provide any documentation. By providing these items, your lender will be able to determine an estimate of your maximum monthly mortgage payment and how much you can borrow. These aren’t concrete numbers, more of a gauge so you know your price range.

Pre-approval

Once you are pre-qualified, the next step will be to get pre-approved. This process is more involved, requiring more paperwork and the help of a loan officer. Documents you typically need to provide are copies of your paystubs, bank statements and tax returns; additional documents might needed as well. The loan officer will also pull your credit report to get a better understanding of your credit history and financial situation. Once your information has been reviewed, your loan officer will provide you a pre-approval letter stating how much you are approved to borrow. Having a pre-approval letter can give you a competitive edge against other buyers. This shows the seller you are serious and ready to buy.

You should refrain from making large purchases and incurring new debt at this time, as this can affect your pre-approval amount. Keep in mind getting pre-approved does not mean final approval. Once you put an offer on a home and the offer has been accepted, the loan will still need to go through processing and underwriting before final approval is granted.

Getting pre-approved will help speed up the home buying process since you will have a solid foundation of information. Once you are pre-approved, you are on your way to homeownership! Contact one of our loan officers to get started.

Related Posts

5 Tips for First Time Homebuyers
5 Tips for First Time Homebuyers

Are you considering taking the exciting step of buying your first home? Congratulations! Owning a home is a significant milestone, but it can also be a complex process, especially when it comes to getting a mortgage. As a first-time homebuyer, navigating the world of mortgages might seem overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and preparation, […]

March 08, 2024
Full Post
Navigating A Mortgage Application
Navigating A Mortgage Application

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting yet intricate process, and the first significant step is often the mortgage application. To ensure a seamless and stress-free experience, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide with essential tips and a handy checklist to navigate the mortgage application maze with confidence. 1. Know Your Credit Score: Before […]

February 15, 2024
Full Post
Top 4 Mortgage FAQs Answered
Top 4 Mortgage FAQs Answered

Join us on this educational journey as we address the most common questions that may arise during your mortgage process. Remember, your path to homeownership should be paved with understanding and guidance. Let’s dive into the top 4 mortgage FAQs and unravel the keys to unlocking the doors of your dream home. What is the […]

January 26, 2024
Full Post

Connect With Us