Gather your financial information: This includes your income, employment history, credit score, and debt information.
Research lenders: Shop around for lenders and compare their rates and terms to find the best fit for your needs.
Contact a lender: Once you've found a lender you're interested in, contact them to begin the pre-approval process.
Complete a mortgage application: The lender will require you to complete a mortgage application, which will include information about your financial situation.
Provide documentation: The lender will require documentation to verify your financial information, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.
Wait for pre-approval: The lender will review your application and documentation and decide whether to pre-approve you for a mortgage.
Receive pre-approval letter: If you're pre-approved, the lender will provide you with a pre-approval letter that outlines the maximum amount you can borrow based on your financial situation.
Begin house hunting: With your pre-approval letter in hand, you can begin looking for homes within your budget and make an offer when you find the right one.