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Your Complete Guide to Mortgage Pre-Approval: Why It’s Your First Step to Homeownership

  • Writer: Samantha Tunador
    Samantha Tunador
  • Sep 5
  • 2 min read

Whether you're buying your first home or your fifth, the journey starts the same way: with a solid mortgage pre-approval. It’s not just a piece of paper—it’s your homebuying permission slip, budget outline, and negotiation advantage all rolled into one.


Everything you need to know about how and why to obtain a mortgage pre-approval.

Here’s why pre-approval should be your very first step (before you fall in love with a home you can’t buy yet):


What Is Mortgage Pre-Approval?


A mortgage pre-approval is a written estimate from a lender stating how much home you can afford based on your income, credit, assets, and debts. It’s not a final loan commitment, but it’s a strong indicator that you’re a serious, qualified buyer.


Why Pre-Approval Comes First


  1. It Defines Your Budget


    House hunting without a pre-approval is like shopping without knowing your credit limit. You might be looking at homes that aren’t financially realistic—or worse, missing out on homes that are.

  2. It Gives You Leverage


    In today’s competitive market, sellers won’t even consider an offer that doesn’t include a pre-approval letter. Being pre-approved shows you’re not just browsing—you’re ready to buy.

  3. It Uncovers Surprises Early


    Pre-approval is like a financial check-up. If there are any credit or income issues, you’ll find out before you’re under contract—not when it’s too late to fix them.

  4. It Speeds Up Your Closing


    A strong pre-approval can help you close faster once you go under contract, giving you a serious edge if you’re competing with multiple offers.


What You'll Need to Get Pre-Approved


Expect to provide:

  • Recent pay stubs or proof of income

  • W-2s or Tax Returns if self employed

  • 2 months bank statements

  • ID and Social Security number

You’ll also have a credit check as part of the process. That’s a good thing as you will want to make sure that no discrepancies are noted.


Bottom Line


Don’t start with the house. Start with your plan.


Mortgage pre-approval is the first smart step toward owning your next home—and the best way to empower your search with clarity, confidence, and strategy. If you're ready, let's connect you with a trusted lender and start the journey.


This guest blog post was authored by local mortgage expert, Samantha Tunador.


Samantha Tunador is a loan officer with Atlantic Coast Mortgage in Loudoun County, Virginia.

Samantha Tunador

Loan Officer (NMLS ID - 2408374)

Atlantic Coast Mortgage

(703) 919-5875



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