Licensed in California · NMLS #362311
Quick answer
Pre-approval is when a lender reviews your credit, income, and assets and tells you how much you can borrow. It gives you a pre-approval letter to show sellers, which makes your offer stronger. It is more thorough than a quick “pre-qualification.” Getting pre-approved early is the best way to shop with confidence.
Pre-approval vs pre-qualification
Sellers take a pre-approval much more seriously, so it is worth doing.
What you’ll need
Photo ID.
Recent pay stubs and W-2s (or tax returns if self-employed).
Bank and asset statements.
Permission for a credit check.
See Required Documents.
Why get pre-approved first
Know your budget. Shop only for homes you can afford.
Stronger offers. Sellers prefer pre-approved buyers.
Faster closing. Much of the review is already done.
Catch issues early. Fix credit or document gaps before you shop.
Step by step
How it works
1
Submit your information. Securely, through the pre-approval tool.
2
The lender reviews it. Credit, income, and assets.
3
You get a result. Including how much you can borrow.
4
You receive a letter. To show sellers.
5
You shop with confidence. See Homebuying Steps & Timeline.
Good questions
Frequently asked questions
Next steps
Getting pre-approved is the best first move.
Start above, or learn more first. EZ Online Mortgage makes pre-approval simple, so you can shop with confidence.
This page is for education only. It is not a loan offer or a promise of approval, rates, or terms. Qualification depends on your individual circumstances. Equal Housing Opportunity · NMLS #362311 · CA DRE #01871814.