Why Pre-Approval Is a Game Changer for Homebuyers

If you’re planning to [buy a home](https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/06/28/a-key-opportunity-for-homebuyers/?a=550432-7d0dd2250a392515b4ab3273bfa644ce) this year, you might have heard that pre-approval is a necessary step to take before starting out on your journey. But why is that? And is it still important in [today’s shifting market](https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/07/12/expert-housing-market-forecasts-for-the-second-half-of-the-year/?a=550432-7d0dd2250a392515b4ab3273bfa644ce)? **The truth is, getting a pre-approval letter from your lender is critical, and when it comes to your home search, it can be a game changer in so many ways.** To better understand why, it’s important to know what pre-approval is. _Freddie Mac_ [defines](https://myhome.freddiemac.com/blog/homeownership/how-do-i-get-pre-approved-mortgage) the process like this: > **_“A pre-approval is an indication from your lender that they are willing to lend you a certain amount of money to buy your future home._** _The lender you work with will provide you with a pre-approval letter, which is an official document that states the maximum amount they are willing to lend you, . . .”_ Put simply, pre-approval from a lender helps you understand your true price range and how much money you can borrow for [your loan](https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/06/22/things-to-avoid-after-applying-for-a-home-loan/?a=550432-7d0dd2250a392515b4ab3273bfa644ce). That can make it easier when you set out to search for homes. And since you’ll know what you’re approved for, it’ll also help once it’s time to submit an offer on the home of your [dreams](https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/07/05/is-homeownership-still-the-american-dream/?a=550432-7d0dd2250a392515b4ab3273bfa644ce). Another added benefit is that pre-approval lets the seller know you’re qualified to buy their house. Paul Centopani, Editor for the _Mortgage Reports_, [explains](https://themortgagereports.com/92875/first-time-buyer-expert-financial-tips-podcast): > _“. . . **most sellers won’t even consider an offer unless the buyer is pre-approved at the right price point.** Sellers and their agents want to know you’re ready and able to finance your offer amount. So you’ll want to have your preapproval teed up as soon as you’re serious about bidding on a home you like.”_ Every advantage you can gain as a buyer is crucial in a market that’s [constantly changing](https://www.simplifyingthemarket.com/2022/06/14/is-the-housing-market-correcting/?a=550432-7d0dd2250a392515b4ab3273bfa644ce). You’re going to need guidance to navigate these waters, so it’s important to have a team of professionals, such as a real estate advisor and trusted lender, on your side. They’ll help make sure you’re ready to put your best foot forward. ### **Bottom Line** Getting pre-approved for a mortgage helps you better understand what you can borrow and shows sellers you’re serious about purchasing their home. Let’s connect so you have the tools you need to succeed as a homebuyer in today’s shifting market. Posted in [First Time Home Buyers](https://cherylbowerrealestate.com/category/first-time-home-buyers/), [For Buyers](https://cherylbowerrealestate.com/category/for-buyers/), [Move-Up Buyers](https://cherylbowerrealestate.com/category/move-up-buyers/)