Mortgage preapproval starts with a plan.
Tell Lee where you are in the homebuying process. He can help you work through your budget, compare loan options, and understand what a lender needs for preapproval.
This is a short inquiry. You don't need to create an account or upload documents here. Lee will follow up using your preferred contact method.
Ready for the full application?
Our secure application opens in ARIVE and starts with account registration. Use that application for financial details and documents.
Open full loan application (opens in a new tab)Ask Lee about preapproval
Start with your name and email. A phone number and a little context help Lee follow up.
Submitting this inquiry doesn't provide a credit decision or guarantee approval. Please don't include Social Security numbers, account numbers, or financial documents.
By submitting your information, you consent to be contacted by phone, text, or email about your inquiry. Message and data rates may apply. You may opt out at any time. We do not sell or share your information. Privacy policy
What happens next?
1. Talk through your plans
Share your timeline and a payment you'd feel comfortable with. Your own budget matters alongside a lender's borrowing limit.
2. Review what's needed
Lee can explain the application, documents, and credit review required by the lender before you proceed.
3. Understand your preapproval
A preapproval is conditional. Ask which information has been verified and which conditions remain before you make an offer.
Learn more in the CFPB's guide to preapproval letters, or read our first-time buyer guide.
What documents do I need for mortgage preapproval?
The lender's checklist depends on your income and loan program. Common requests include:
- Identification and recent pay or other income records.
- W-2s, tax returns, or business records when requested.
- Bank and asset statements showing funds for the purchase.
- Records showing where your down payment comes from, including any gift documentation.
Self-employed buyers may need additional records. Ask Lee what applies before gathering everything. Use the secure full application for documents, never this inquiry form.
What does a preapproval letter actually tell me?
It tells you what a lender is tentatively willing to lend, subject to its conditions. It's a useful step toward shopping with a clearer budget. It isn't final loan approval.
- Ask which income, assets, and credit information the lender has reviewed.
- Check the letter's expiration date and what needs updating.
- Ask what conditions remain and whether the process includes a credit check.
- Choose a payment you can comfortably afford, even if the lender's limit is higher.
Lenders use “prequalification” and “preapproval” differently. The name matters less than what's been checked. A preapproval also doesn't commit you to that lender. Once you have Loan Estimates, compare the actual offers.
Source: CFPB's guide to preapproval letters.