Prequalified vs. Preapproved for a Mortgage: What’s the Difference?

prequalified preapproved or preunderwrittenIf you’re getting ready to buy a home, one of the first things you’ll hear is that you need to get preapproved. But what does that actually mean — and how is it different from being prequalified? And what about a loan commitment letter, or being pre-underwritten?

These terms get used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. The difference matters — especially in a competitive market where sellers are evaluating the strength of every offer on the table.

Here’s a simple breakdown of each level and what to look for. [Read more…]

From Prequalified to Offer Accepted: What Homebuyers Need to Know (Workshop Replay)

If you’re thinking about buying a home, there’s a lot that happens between casually getting “prequalified” and having your offer accepted. This workshop replay walks you through that entire early phase of the homebuying process—step by step—so you know what to expect, who’s involved, and how to position yourself as a strong buyer.

Below, you’ll find the replay of my Home Buying Workshop: From Prequalified to Offer Accepted, along with highlights and key takeaways from the class.

👉 Watch the full workshop replay below:

[Read more…]

How to Improve Your Odds of Getting Your Offer Accepted in Washington State

how to get your offer accepted to buy a home in WAThe housing market in the Pacific Northwest remains competitive. Low inventory means that when a well-priced home hits the market, buyers often find themselves competing — and the difference between winning and losing a bid frequently comes down to preparation, not just price.

Here are the steps you can take before and during the offer process to improve your chances of having your offer accepted. [Read more…]

Visiting Open Houses? You Need to Be Fully Preapproved

pre-underwritten preapproved homebuyerIt’s fun to visit open houses on the weekends. You may be picturing yourself living in the home, enjoying the backyard or perhaps making a few home improvements to really make it “yours”.

If you’re even thinking about buying a home, I strongly encourage you to get fully preapproved before you find yourself at an open house wanting to present an offer.

Here are some steps I recommend for anyone considering buying a home. [Read more…]

What’s the Difference Between being Pre-Qualified or Pre-Approved for a Mortgage?

Do you know the difference between being prequalified or preapproved for a mortgage?

This short video reviews the importance of being preapproved.

If you are currently preapproved with a lender, I recommend making sure that your preapproval has been underwritten by a “human underwriter” and not just “AUS” (automatic underwriting i.e. a computer). [Read more…]