Get pre-approved with a local lender.
A pre-approval tells you what you can spend and shows sellers your offer is real. Irena introduces you to local loan officers she works with, helps you compare their Loan Estimates, and you choose the lender.
Irena receives no payment or other benefit from any lender for introductions or referrals. You're free to choose any lender.
Based on what you tell a lender about your income and savings. Useful early on, but sellers don't weigh it heavily.
The lender checks your credit, income, assets, and debts, then issues a letter for a specific amount. This is what sellers expect with an offer.
From first call to pre-approval letter
Budget, timeline, and which loan types might fit. About 20 minutes.
Irena connects you with two or three local loan officers who fit your situation.
Every lender must give you a standard three-page Loan Estimate within three business days of applying, so offers compare line by line. Irena helps you read them.
You choose a lender and get your pre-approval letter before you tour, so you can offer the day you find the right home.
What to gather
Having these ready makes a pre-approval take days instead of weeks. Your lender will tell you exactly what they need.
- ✓Pay stubs from the last 30 days
- ✓W-2s or 1099s for the last two years (tax returns if you're self-employed)
- ✓Two months of bank and investment statements
- ✓A photo ID
- ✓A gift letter, if family is helping with the down payment
- ✓Any other income documents, such as pension, Social Security, or rental income
- ✓For VA loans, a Certificate of Eligibility (your lender can usually request it)
Common loans and Washington programs
Washington's down payment assistance programs are run by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission through approved lenders. Irena isn't a loan officer; rates, terms, and eligibility come from your lender.
Pre-approval FAQ
Does getting pre-approved hurt my credit?
A pre-approval usually includes a credit check. Credit scoring models generally count several mortgage inquiries made within a short shopping window as one, so comparing two or three lenders in the same couple of weeks is normal.
How long does a pre-approval last?
Usually 60 to 90 days, depending on the lender. Your lender can update it if your search runs longer.
Do I have to use a lender Irena introduces?
No. Use any lender you like, and Irena will work with them the same way. She receives no payment from lenders either way.
Can I get pre-approved from out of the area?
Yes. Applications, documents, and signatures are mostly handled online, and Irena coordinates with your lender wherever you're starting from.
Should I talk to a lender or to Irena first?
Either order works. Many buyers call Irena first so the introductions fit the homes and towns they're considering.
Tell Irena what you're planning. She'll make the introductions.
Tap what fits. Irena uses it to pick two or three local loan officers for you, then helps you compare their Loan Estimates side by side.