Get Pre-Approved and Set Your Budget

This is where things start to feel real—and exciting. I’ll connect you with a trusted lender (or you can use your own) who will help determine your price range, monthly payments, and the best loan options for your situation.

Getting pre-approved does more than just show sellers you're serious—it also helps you determine what you can comfortably afford. Your pre-approval sets your budget, gives us a strong foundation to work from, and applies to any property within that price range. Most pre-approvals are good for several months, so you’ll be ready to move when the right home comes along.

And don’t worry—most involve only a soft credit pull, so there’s no impact on your score—just proof you’re prepared when it counts.

Here’s the truth: the market moves fast—and the best homes often go quickly. I once worked with wonderful buyers who found their dream home during our very first tour. It was the one. We were ready to write a strong offer, but they hadn’t been pre-approved yet.

To their credit, they got pre-approved within 24 hours—but in that short window, another buyer had already swooped in and had their offer accepted.

It was heartbreaking, not because they weren’t qualified, but because they weren’t ready on paper when it mattered most.

That’s why we get pre-approved early: it puts you in a position of power, helps us act fast when the right home comes along, and shows sellers you’re serious and ready to go. Most pre-approvals involve only a soft credit pull, so there’s no downside—but there’s a huge upside when we’re competing in a market that rewards preparedness.

Your lender will help guide you through the process, but here’s a quick look at what they typically ask for:

✅ Proof of Income (recent pay stubs, W-2s or 1099s)
✅ Tax Returns (usually 2 years)
✅ Proof of Assets (bank statements, investment accounts, etc.)
✅ Credit Information (soft pull in most cases)
✅ Employment Verification
✅ Government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport)
✅ Additional documentation if self-employed or have variable income

Your lender will walk you through exactly what they need, and I’m happy to coordinate with them to make this as easy as possible.