You’ve been pre-approved!

Have you ever been tempted by those credit card solicitations saying you’ve been “Pre-Approved”? If you’re in the market for a new credit card, you may reason that there will be less hassle if you accept the offer of a pre-approved card. Right? The credit card company feels the same way. They’ve already determined you are creditworthy before sending the solicitation. They already know they want you as a customer. Now, put yourself in the position of homebuyer. You want to purchase a home with the least amount of hassle and delay. You want to approach home sellers from the strongest position possible. You want them to take your offer seriously, and accept it without delay. How can you do it? Get “pre-approved!” That’s right - put the cart before the proverbial horse. Get approved for a mortgage first, before you begin looking at homes. Once you’ve chosen a real estate agent, ask the agent to set up an appointment with a mortgage lender. Do the paperwork, ask for a commitment letter once you’re approved, and only then begin your home search. Three immediate benefits will accrue to your buying position. Your confidence level will rise. Your willingness to commit when the right home comes along will increase. Sellers will take your offer more seriously when you make it. What more can you ask?