Pre-Approval

Get a PRE-APPROVAL Letter

A pre-qualification or pre-approval letter is a document from your mortgage broker stating that the mortgage lenders is tentatively willing to approve you for a certain loan program and loan amount. This letter is based on certain assumptions and it is not a guaranteed loan offer. But, it lets the home seller know that you are likely to be able to get financing. Sellers frequently require a prequalification or preapproval letter before accepting your offer on a house.
 


When to Get a Pre-Approval Letter

Utah mortgage brokers typically check your credit before issuing a pre-approval letter, and the letter will have an expiration date on it (typically 30 to 90 days). For these reasons, many people wait to get a pre-approval letter until they are ready to begin shopping seriously for a home. However, getting pre-approved early in the process can be a good way to spot potential issues in time to correct them. These letters can usually be updated easily as well.
 

What is a Mortgage Broker's Pre-Approval Process

Every mortgage broker or lender has a different loan process. Find out what you need to do and what documentation is required. There are also certain things you should avoid doing during and after the pre-approval process.
 

Ask Questions

Ask your mortgage broker what assumptions are being made to issue the pre-approval. Is there anything about your situation that could lead to your loan being denied later on, or that could increase your interest rate or loan costs? Find out if they charge for the pre-approval, Advanced Funding does not charge for this process.
 


Mortgage Companies May Use Different Terminology, “Pre-Qualification” and “Pre-Approval”

Some companies may only offer a “pre-qualification”. Others may only offer a “pre-approval”. Advanced Funding chooses to offer pre-approvals. Learn more.
 

Pre-Approvals Require Additional Documentation

Some mortgage brokers base pre-approval letters solely on the information you provide. Other lenders dig into the details with you to make certain you have all the documentation you need and prevent delays and surprises later. All mortgage lenders will require documentation at some point if you decide to apply for a loan. It’s better to know now that you need additional documents than when you’re about to close.
 

Getting a Pre-Approval Letter isn't a Full Loan Approval

A pre-approval letter just says that a lender is willing to lend to you, pending further confirmation of details, such as a commitment of title, appraisal, etc. A pre-approval helps you shop for a home because it lets the seller know you are a serious buyer.
 


Avoid Pitfalls

Mortgage companies in Utah will pre-approve you by looking at your income, assets, debts, and credit report. But your financial situation is much more complicated than that. Only you can decide how much you’re comfortable paying each month on a payment, which means only you can decide how much to spend on a home.

For more information regarding getting a pre-approval letter contact your mortgage broker at 801.272.0600.