Step 2 Home Buying 101: Get Pre-Approved with Confidence

Step 2 in Our First-Time Buyer Blog Series

Welcome back to the Home Buying 101 series! Now that you've gotten your financial house in order (if you missed that post, catch up here), it's time for your next big move:

📋 Getting Pre-Approved by a Lender!

This step isn't just a formality, obtaining your pre-approval is your golden ticket to shopping with purpose, negotiating with power, and securing the home you love.

Why Pre-Approval Matters

In today’s market, being pre-approved is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s a must.

✅ Know Your Numbers

Find out exactly how much home you can afford based on your income, debts, and credit.

✅ Stand Out from the Crowd

Sellers want serious buyers. A pre-approval letter shows you're ready, willing, and able to make an offer.

✅ Streamline the Process

You’ll save time, reduce stress, and make smarter decisions when you already know your budget and loan options.

Ready to Buy or Sell? Start Here

Home Buying 101: Get Pre-Approved with Confidence

🔍 How Pre-Approval Works

Getting pre-approved is a simple process that gives your lender insight into your financial health. Here’s what to expect:

Example of a proof of funds/pre-approval document. These can be customized to specific properties once you've located the home.

1️⃣ Verify Employment & Income

You’ll provide recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns (typically last two years), and documentation of any side hustle or freelance income.

2️⃣ Verify Assets

This includes bank statements, retirement accounts, or investment portfolios. Lenders want to confirm you have enough to cover the down payment and closing costs.

3️⃣ List Current Debts & Monthly Payments

Student loans, car notes, credit cards, personal loans—anything you pay monthly needs to be accounted for.

4️⃣ Credit Evaluation

Your credit score and credit history will be reviewed to determine your loan eligibility and interest rate.

5️⃣ Receive Pre-Approval Letter

Once everything checks out, you’ll receive a letter stating how much you’re pre-approved to borrow. This is your official green light to start home shopping!

💪🏼 Take Control of Your Home Buying Journey

The sooner you're pre-approved, the sooner you can confidently shop for homes within your price range—and act fast when you find the right one.

Don't miss out on your dream home by waiting too long. Let's get you pre-approved and house hunting with confidence!

👉 Schedule your FREE Buyer Consultation with me Today. We'll walk through your goals, match you with trusted lenders, and get you fully prepared for this exciting next step.

Ready to Buy or Sell? Start Here

Let’s get started. Reach out now to Alex Watson, your trusted Realtor®, at 254-307-1596 or connect with me on social media @WatsonInvestRealtor. Let's get you into your dream home!

Ready to Buy or Sell? Start Here

If you missed the previous post in the series, catch up here.