Pre-approval is an important first step before you begin looking for a home, and it helps you determine how much home you can really afford. Getting pre-approved requires that the lender verify your financial information, and it serves as a commitment to lend a specified amount based on that information. This gives you significant buying power with a seller who recognizes you will be approved for a loan.

Pre-qualification is an informal discussion between borrower and lender. The lender estimates the amount that you can borrow based solely on what you tell them about your income and assets. The lender does no verification and is not bound to make the loan when you're ready to buy.