Why do I need to be pre-approved before I look for a home?
Great question, and here’s our answer! Because we want you to be a confident, smart buyer!! If you are new to the home buying process then speaking with a lender will help you understand your comfort level on the range of prices of homes to view. The goal is for you to know your target price range (what you can afford) so that when you find a home you love then you can go through the process of actually getting a loan and completing your home purchase.
The initial stage of talking to a lender is not a difficult process. It is not a formal approval process which will come once you actually apply for the loan. Based on some basic information the lender should be able to assess whether or not you qualify for a loan, and for how much. The lender will give you an idea of what your monthly payments will be. Remember, your mortgage payment includes, principal, interest, and escrow for taxes and insurance. Remember that your lender is part of your team in your home purchase!
Realtors want to help you find the right home, yet we want to make sure you are confident that the home’s price fits your budget. The worst thing would be to start looking at homes above your budget and then having to adjust downwards.
So when you hear your Gainesville Realtor® ask you if you have spoken to a lender, don’t resist. They are helping ensure that you are in a good position end up as a homeowner.
Call us and let’s talk about getting started on YOUR home purchase!