Steps to Get Pre-Approved for Your First Mortgage

Take your first big step with a clear pre-approval guide—start strong with Seeking Agents™.

Why Pre-Approval Is Your Power Move

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage isn’t just paperwork—it’s your ticket to knowing what you can afford and showing sellers you’re serious. For first-time buyers, it’s a game-changer that speeds up the process. Seeking Agents™ pairs you with pros who guide you through pre-approval, making it smooth and stress-free.

Here’s your step-by-step plan to get there.

Your Pre-Approval Roadmap

Follow these steps to secure your mortgage pre-approval:

  • Step 1: Check Your Finances: Review your income, savings, and debts. Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI)—aim for 36% or lower.
  • Step 2: Gather Documents: You’ll need pay stubs, tax returns (2 years), bank statements, and ID. Having these ready speeds things up.
  • Step 3: Shop Lenders: Compare rates from banks, credit unions, or online lenders. Look for first-time buyer perks like lower rates or fees.
  • Step 4: Apply & Get Pre-Approved: Submit your docs—lenders check your credit and issue a pre-approval letter (usually good for 60-90 days).

Done right, you’ll know your budget and boost your offer’s strength.

Your Pre-Approval Checklist

Ask yourself (and your agent) these before you start:

  • “Is my credit score solid? (620+ for most loans)”
  • “Do I have all my financial docs lined up?”
  • “Which lenders offer the best rates for first-timers?”
  • “How much can I borrow based on my income and debt?”
  • Visit Seeking Agents™ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page for answers to common questions?

Team up with Seeking Agents™ to nail these and get pre-approved fast.

Get Pre-Approved Today

Ready to take your first big step? With Seeking Agents™, you’ll find agents who make pre-approval simple and set you up to buy with confidence. Start now and get ahead.

Find Your Agent Now

Learning more: How to Find and Choose Your First Home

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