What is Mortgage Pre-Approval and Why Is it Important?
Obtaining pre-approval for a mortgage is an invaluable tool to get an estimate of what you can afford. It also serves as an essential first step in the home buying process, showing sellers that you’re serious about purchasing and have financing secured. Furthermore, having this pre-approved can help avoid disappointment or costly setbacks which might prevent you from closing on a deal.
What is a Mortgage Pre-Approval?
A mortgage pre-approval is an official letter from your lender confirming you’ve been approved to borrow a certain amount for home purchase. It includes an itemized estimate of your interest rate, monthly payment and closing costs as well as the maximum loan amount you qualify for and required down payment amount. Additionally, this letter indicates how much down payment you must make upon closing.
What is the Difference between a Pre-Approval and a Pre-Qualification?
A pre-approval is a more thorough evaluation of your financial situation than just pre-qualifying does. It takes into account factors like credit score, debt-to-income ratio, employment history and more to determine your price range and mortgage loan options.
It is essential to be honest with your mortgage officer about all aspects of your finances so they can determine the best fit for you. You’ll need to provide your most recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements and other documents which demonstrate income sources, assets and credit histories.
You may be asked for additional details or asked to re-verify previously provided data. For instance, if your job changes, it could be necessary to update income or employer details.
In many cases, lenders will verify the documentation provided during pre-qualification to determine your pre-approval status. Alternatively, they may rely on a credit report for confirmation of information.
How long does it take to be pre-approved?
Lenders typically perform a thorough credit check and review your application within two to four weeks. Once they’ve confirmed your eligibility, they’ll issue you with a pre-approval letter that can serve as proof when looking for a home.
How long does it take to secure a mortgage after receiving pre-approval?
In some cases, people can receive their preapproval within just a few days. On the other hand, those with low credit scores or histories of debt or foreclosures may face longer wait times during this process.
If you are having difficulty getting pre-approved, speak to your lender about ways to improve your credit or financial situation. These strategies may enable you to obtain a mortgage and save money on interest rates and closing costs.
When is the Best Time to Apply for a Mortgage?
Experts suggest starting the mortgage process as soon as possible. Doing so gives you time to address any issues which could prevent approval and allows your lender to make an informed decision regarding whether you should proceed with getting one.
Mortgage-hunting can be an exciting and daunting process, so it’s essential to be prepared. A pre-approval will guarantee you find a house within your budget and allow you to secure financing. Additionally, it helps prevent you from falling in love with a property that is too costly for your budget.
