Many lenders help prospective
buyers get pre-approved for a mortgage loan before they begin a serious
house-hunting effort. Give the loan officer all of the information about your
assets, income, and debts so they can tell you how much money you will be able
to get under the available loan options. The loan officer will do a credit check
and work with the lender to straighten out any problems with your credit rating.
Pre-approval from a lender can make you more
attractive to the seller when you find the home you want. Occasionally multiple
offers come in on a house, and you find yourself competing with other buyers. In
that case, it is helpful if you have included a letter from the lender with your
offer stating that you have an approved loan and are, indeed, qualified to buy.
This will also save you time by eliminating from consideration any homes that
you would not be able to afford.
