Mortgage Prequalification versus Mortgage Preapproval

What’s the Difference Between a Mortgage Prequalification versus Mortgage Preapproval?

Mortgage Prequalification versus Preapproval: What’s the difference? There are definitely several worth learning about before buying a home.

They Are Not the Same

Mortgage Prequalification versus PreapprovalWhile many real estate agents and their clients use the terms pre-qualification and pre-approval interchangeably, they are very different in practice.

Prequalification

Prequalification involves providing information to the lender. Also, in return getting a letter stating the maximum loan amount that the home buyer should be able to afford.

Preapproval

On the other hand, preapproval involves providing documentation to support that information, as well as passing a credit check.

Completing an entire application package

Homebuyers complete an entire application package, supplying pay stubs and / or tax returns, bank and investment account statements, and perhaps other paperwork like divorce decrees, business licenses, canceled checks and more.

Underwritten Upfront

So, the whole thing is actually processed and underwritten upfront. And if approved, the borrower should be able to purchase any property that meets the lender’s requirements.

From Mortgage Application to Mortgage Approval

The road from mortgage application to mortgage approval can be blocked by many unexpected problems. For example, possible errors on your credit report or questions about that second job. Or, maybe a bounced check that’s showing up on a bank statement.

Resolve Issues Upfront

Going through the pre-approval process allows mortgage applicants to resolve these issues without the added pressure of being in escrow with a closing date hanging over their heads.

It’s very important and time saving to go through the process of getting preapproved versus prequalified

This saves a lot of time and potential stress. Also, the Seller’s agent and the Seller will be a lot more inclined to take your offer seriously knowing you are educated and prepared. Plus, they like to see that you have been scrutinized by a mortgage lender and serious enough to buy their home.

Arizona Contract Law

Additionally, Arizona contract law states that a pre-approval letter must be submitted with all Purchase Contracts or delivered within 24-hours. I don’t like to wait 24-hours. I like to submit an entire beautiful package that I put together.

Put yourself back in the seller’s shoes for a moment. Wouldn’t you want buyers to have a letter like this if you were selling your home?

No Obligation Consultation

If you are interested in a free consultation to see if buying a Phoenix home is a better option for you and get pre-approved for a home loan, please call or email me today. You’ll be surprised at what you learn. Additionally, I have access to programs that offer down-payment assistance with money you do not have to pay back.

Buying or Selling a Home In Phoenix?

Whether you’re buying or selling a home in Central or Downtown Phoenix, or just have some questions about anything at all in or about any one of the historic districts in Phoenix, I’d be very happy to help you! Just call or email me anytime.