Getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your very first step in the home buying process. It’s a conditional commitment from your lender that allows you to understand how much you can comfortably afford to spend on a home before you start browsing listings.

Determine what you can afford. Before you start shopping for a home – and long before you consider putting an offer on one – let me help you determine how much home you can comfortably afford. Having a realistic budget to start will bring you confidence, knowing that you are not overextending yourself. Remember that home ownership involves costs beyond the monthly mortgage payment such as utility bills, insurance, taxes, home upkeep. Be sure to talk to me about getting pre-approved, so you’ll get your interest rate guaranteed for a set period, typically 90 to 120 days.

Downpayment options. Downpayment is one of your most important considerations before you look to purchase your new home. If you’re in the “saving up” stage of preparing for home ownership, this is a great time to meet with us so we can discuss your downpayment options. In most cases you want to save five percent of the purchase price.

Falling in love with a home that’s outside your budget can lead to disappointment, so getting pre-approved helps you set realistic expectations and saves you time by focusing your search on properties within your price range. Don’t wait to find out if you qualify for a mortgage – get pre-approved and start your home buying journey on the right foot.