Preapproval Is the Homebuying Step You Cant Afford to Skip

Theres one essential step in the homebuying process you may not know a whole lot about, and thats preapproval. Heres a rundown on what it is and why its so important. 

What Is Preapproval? 

Preapproval is like getting the green light from a lender. It gives you a sense of how much theyre willing to let you borrow for your home loan. To determine that number, a lender starts by looking at your financial history. Here are some of the documents they may ask you for during this process:

• W-2s and tax returns
• Pay stubs and bank statements
• Investment account statements (if applicable)
• History of where youve lived

The result? Theyll assess your financial situation, and youll get a preapproval letter showing what you can borrow. Keep in mind, any changes to your finances can affect your preapproval status. So, after you receive your letter, avoid switching jobs, applying for new credit cards or other loans, co-signing for loans or taking money from your savings.

How It Helps You Determine Your Borrowing Power

This year, home prices are expected to rise moderately in most markets, and mortgage rates are stabilizing, but still volatile. And since affordability continues to be tight, its a good idea to talk to a lender about your home loan options and how todays changing mortgage rates will impact your monthly payment.

The preapproval process is the perfect time for that discussion. Since it determines the maximum amount you can borrow, preapproval also helps you figure out your budget. And keep in mind, you may get approved for more than you feel comfortable borrowing, so use this time to decide what you can afford in your monthly mortgage payment as you factor in taxes, insurance and other costs you will incur as a homeowner. Once you know what works for you financially, partner with your REMAX agent to tailor your search to homes that match your budget. That way, you dont fall in love with a house thats realistically outside of your comfort zone.

How It Helps You Stand Out

Once you find a home you want to put an offer on, preapproval has another big perk. It not only makes your offer stronger, it shows sellers youve already undergone a credit and financial check. So, when a seller sees youre preapproved, they view you as a much more serious buyer and may be more attracted to your offer because it is more likely to go through. And for a seller who is ready to close a deal, an offer thats backed by preapproval makes a big difference.

As Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, says: 

Preapproval carries more weight because it means lenders have actually done more than a cursory review of your credit and your finances, but have instead reviewed your pay stubs, tax returns and bank statements. A preapproval means youve cleared the hurdles necessary to be approved for a mortgage up to a certain dollar amount.

Bottom Line

If youre planning on buying a home, getting preapproved for a mortgage should be one of the first things on your to-do list. Not only will it give you a better understanding of your borrowing power, itll put you in the best position possible to make a strong offer when you find a home you love.

Do you know what else you need to do to make sure youre ready to buy? Reach out, and Ill make sure you dont skip any of the key homebuying steps.

Venessa James - Broker Associate    

ABR, ALHS, CHMS, MCNE, LUXE, SFR, SRS  

Platinum Experience Group - KW Professionals 

(281) 889-8292 platinumexperiencegroup.com

Integrity, Experience, Results