Pre-qualification vs. pre-approval
A pre-qualification is an estimate based on what you tell a lender. A pre-approval means the lender has reviewed your credit, income, and assets. Sellers and agents take pre-approvals much more seriously.
Documents to gather
- Pay stubs covering the last 30 days
- W-2s for the last two years, or tax returns if self-employed
- Two months of bank and investment statements
- Photo ID
- Details on any other debts, child support, or alimony
The steps
- A quick call with Greg about your goals and budget
- Your online application and document upload
- A credit review, with your permission
- Your pre-approval letter, tailored to each offer if you like
Keep your approval strong
Until closing, avoid opening new credit, making large purchases, or moving money between accounts without documentation. If anything changes, tell Greg early.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a pre-approval good for?
Most pre-approvals are valid for 60 to 90 days, and credit documents may need updating after that.
Does pre-approval hurt my credit?
A mortgage credit check can cause a small, temporary dip. Multiple mortgage inquiries within a short shopping window are generally treated as one for scoring.
Information is general and current as of November 2026. Program availability, terms, and limits change; Greg confirms what applies to you.