Pre-Qualification

Get Pre-Qualified Before You Start Your Home Search

One of the most important steps in the home buying process happens before you ever walk through a front door and that’s getting pre-qualified. I know it can be tempting to start browsing homes right away, but taking this step first will save you time, stress, and disappointment down the road.

Why Pre-Qualification Matters

You need to know what you can afford.

There’s nothing worse than falling in love with a home that’s out of your budget. Getting pre-qualified gives you a clear picture of how much home you can realistically purchase based on your income, assets, and credit. It helps you shop with confidence, knowing every home you look at is one you can actually buy.

You can’t make an offer without it.

In today’s market, sellers require a pre-qualification letter to be submitted alongside any offer. Without one, your offer won’t even be considered. Having your letter ready means that when you find the right home, you can move quickly and competitively.

It makes you a stronger buyer.

Sellers and their agents take pre-qualified buyers seriously. In a competitive market, being pre-qualified can be the difference between getting the home you want and losing it to another buyer.

It helps you spot and solve issues early.

The pre-qualification process gives your lender a chance to identify any credit or financial issues before they become a problem. If something needs to be addressed, it’s far better to know now so there’s time to resolve it, not when you’re under contract on a home.

It speeds up the entire process.

When you’re already pre-qualified, the path from accepted offer to closing is much smoother. Your lender already has your information on file, which means fewer delays and a faster closing timeline

What the Process Looks Like

Getting pre-qualified is simpler than most people expect. Here’s what your lender will typically need from you:

01

Proof of income

Recent pay stubs, W-2s, and/or tax returns

02

Employment history

Generally the past two years

03

Bank statements

To verify your assets and down payment funds

04

Debt information

Current loans, credit cards, and monthly obligations

05

Government-issued ID

A valid driver’s license or passport

06

Social Security number

To authorize a credit check

That’s it. Most lenders can get you pre-qualified within 24 hours, and many can do it even faster. It’s a quick, straightforward process that sets the entire foundation for your home search.

My Preferred Lender

Nathan Jensen

Loan Originator
NMLS# 332253

8767 East Via de Ventura, Suite 101
Scottsdale, AZ 85258

Many of my clients have worked with Nathan and have had a wonderful experience. He is knowledgeable, responsive, and truly committed to finding the right loan for each buyer’s unique situation. I am happy to connect you with him directly.

Please note: You are welcome to work with any lender of your choosing. However, I strongly recommend working with a local lender here in Arizona. Local lenders understand our market, are easier to reach, and tend to have stronger relationships with listing agents  which can make a real difference when it comes to getting your offer accepted.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’d like to be connected with a lender and start the pre-qualification process, fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch right away.