The Importance of Your Pre-Qualification or Pre-Approval

Whether you're buying your first home or are a seasoned homebuyer, one thing is for sure:

sellers want to know you're pre-qualified or pre-approved to purchase.

Photo Courtesy of http://www.century21dreamsrealestate.ca/mortgage-pre-approval

What is a pre-qualification or pre-approval?

Simply put- a pre-qualification or pre-approval is an official letter from your financial institution or mortgage company stating you have been conditionally qualified or approved to purchase property. The letter would include your name, the name of your lender, date/time, the amount you've been approved to purchase and sometimes the address you're looking to make yours. This letter is imperative with any offer you submit! Without a pre-qualification or pre-approval, how else will sellers know you're capable of purchasing? 

So, how do I get pre-qualified or pre-approved?

Easy! Some lenders or mortgage companies can conditionally qualify or approve buyers via telephone. Others prefer face-to-face meetings. Dependent upon your preference, we can help you navigate through the lending world to find the perfect match for you! 

What's the difference between a pre-qualification and pre-approval?

If you receive a pre-qualification, this means the lender or mortgage company is estimating your loan amount based on limited data. This is not an official commitment or approval for your loan.  If you receive a pre-approval, however, this means the lender or mortgage company has studied your finances more in depth and approves your ability to purchase within a certain amount. 

I have my pre-qualification/pre-approval... Now what?

Great! You're already ahead of the game! Now we can begin looking for your dream home. Once we find it, we'll include a copy of your pre-qualification or pre-approval along with any offer we submit. This will help the sellers know you're ready, willing and able to buy! 

Looking to purchase but not sure where to start?

Want to know more about the buying + selling process?

Call Caroline anytime at 859-327-1565