I get a lot of new buyers asking if they should be pre-approved for a loan first before starting to look for a home. You do not need to be pre-approved for a loan to start your search, but it is highly recommended. 
              When you get pre-approved for a loan it helps us know what price range your search needs to be in. If you have been pre-approved for a loan for $300,000 we do not need to look at homes in the $400,000 range. It also helps the lender know what loan programs you qualify for. This can determine the down payment you will need and any assistance programs you may qualify for. Getting pre-approved for a loan also lets us know how well your credit score is. Sometimes there are things on a credit report that the buyer did not know was on there, or they need to do a little work on their credit before they can be pre-approved for a loan. Finally when you find the prefect home we don't want to wait a few days to get the offer in. Some houses are only on the market a few days before they go under contract. Getting the offer in ASAP can the determining factor if you get the house you want or you continue to search. 
               If you need help getting pre-approved for a loan please feel free to call or email me. I have 2 great lenders that can call you today to discuss what you need to do to get pre-approved. Normally they can get you pre-approved in just one day.