It is useful for home buyers to understand the difference between loan pre-qualification and pre-approval. Pre-qualification, which in today’s marketplace is usually done by mortgage brokers, means working with the buyers to determine how much they can afford and which loans are the most likely to be available to them. Loan pre-qualification can save buyers time and money and can even be a bargaining tool with a seller. However, pre-qualification is not the same as loan “pre-approval”. The mortgage broker can often get the buyer a pre-qualification letter, but pre-approval must be issued by the mortgage lender.
Pre-approval means that the lender has definitely committed to loaning the buyer money, once the house itself is approved. Since it is a much stronger pledge, it is a much more valuable negotiating tool. When you hear someone talking about “pre-approval”, they are referring to specific acknowledgment by a lender that they are willing to loan the buyer money. The real estate agent can be of assistance in this process.
Do These Real Estate Tips Really Apply to YOU?
I’ve learned these tips through years of experience as a top real estate agent. But I know that YOUR situation might be different. That’s why I’m here.
It’s my job to personally advise homebuyers and sellers. Ask me if any tip that I’ve included here really applies to your situation.