Homebuyers are becoming more wise when it comes to the process of buying a home. There are plenty of steps in-between the decision to make a move and getting the keys after closing. Perhaps one of the most overlooked, or at least less favorite, steps involves getting the financing lined up ahead of time. Unless you're paying cash (and few do), you're going to have to get a loan. Nowadays, most sellers (through their realtor's advice) require offers to be accompanied by a pre-approval letter from a lender.

The good news is the pre-approval process is relatively easy and can quite often be done on-line. Ask where you bank about getting pre-approved for a mortgage. There's no commitment and usually no cost. Once you have a pre-approval letter in hand, you're then ready to start looking at properties and you will have the confidence of knowing what you can afford.

As always, feel free to email me your real estate questions. I'm here to help.

Michael Creedon
Champions Real Estate Group
email: CreedonRealty@aol.com