Many lenders help prospective buyers get pre-approved for a mortgage loan before the buyers begin a serious house-hunting effort. If you are in this position, give the loan officer all of the information about your assets, income, and debts so they can tell you how much you will be able to borrow 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. Multiple offers sometimes come in on a house, and you may 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.

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