Why Getting Pre-Approved Should Be Your First Step This Spring

Spring kicks off real estate’s busiest season. As more homebuyers enter the market, the competition ramps up—so being prepared from the start gives you a real advantage. If you’re planning to buy a home this spring, getting pre-approved for a mortgage before you start shopping can help you stand out and move fast when it counts.

Why Pre-Approval Should Come First

Waiting until you find the one to get pre-approved might feel harmless, but in a market where homes go fast, that delay could cost you. Getting this step out of the way early helps you act quickly and confidently when the right home comes along.

Here’s what pre-approval involves—and why it matters now more than ever.

What Is Mortgage Pre-Approval?

Mortgage pre-approval gives you a clear picture of how much a lender is willing to let you borrow. To get there, a lender will review your financial information, including:

• Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): This shows how much of your income goes toward debt. A lower DTI generally means you can qualify for a higher loan amount.
• Employment and income: Steady, reliable income helps lenders feel confident in your ability to repay the loan.
• Credit score: A higher score can increase your loan options—and possibly help you lock in a better rate.
• Payment history: Your record of paying bills on time plays a big role in how lenders assess risk.

Once the review is complete, you’ll get a pre-approval letter stating how much you’re qualified to borrow. That letter not only gives you buying power—it also moves you one step closer to the closing table by getting much of the financial legwork out of the way.

It Helps You Understand Your Finances

Getting pre-approved isn’t just about impressing sellers—it’s also a valuable financial check-in. You’ll get a clearer understanding of your full financial picture: how much home you can truly afford, how your credit score affects your loan options, and where your finances stand today.

If there’s anything that needs attention—like lowering your DTI or improving your credit score—you’ll have a chance to address it before you're deep into the home search. It’s a smart move that can help you save money in the long run and avoid surprises later in the process.

Bonus: You’ll also get a better sense of what your monthly mortgage payment could look like, including estimated taxes and insurance, so you can budget more accurately.

You’ll Shop Smarter (and More Confidently)

Spring’s fast-moving market can be emotional—especially when multiple offers are on the table. With pre-approval in hand, you’ll shop with a clear budget and a solid plan.

That budget is your maximum loan amount—but it doesn’t mean you have to spend every dollar. Consider what you’re comfortable paying each month, and factor in other costs like HOA fees, utilities, or maintenance when deciding what fits your lifestyle.

A clear budget also helps your real estate agent zero in on homes that match your financial goals—saving you time, stress, and potential heartbreak.

You’ll Look Like a Stronger Buyer

In a competitive market, sellers are looking for more than just the highest offer. They want one they can trust to close. A pre-approval letter shows that you’re a serious buyer who’s already been vetted. That gives your offer a major edge.

As Zillow puts it, pre-approval “signals to sellers that you’re a serious buyer”—which can help tip the scales in your favor if you’re up against buyers who haven’t taken that step.

Pro tip: After you’re pre-approved, avoid major financial changes. Opening new credit, switching jobs, or making large deposits can affect your loan approval. Keep things steady so your homebuying journey stays on track.

The Bottom Line

If buying a home is on your spring to-do list, make pre-approval your first move. It gives you clarity, confidence, and a competitive edge—all essential in today’s fast-paced market.