The first step to buying a home in NC is mortgage pre-approval. Learn the difference between pre-qual and pre-approval and how to get ready fast.

The first step to buying a house is getting pre-approved—not browsing listings. A real pre-approval gives you a price range, strengthens your offer, and prevents wasted time touring homes you can’t (or shouldn’t) buy.

Pre-approval = clarity + leverage

Pre-approval helps you:

  • Shop with a real budget

  • Move quickly when the right home pops up

  • Be taken seriously by sellers

Pre-qual vs pre-approval

  • Pre-qual: quick estimate based on what you report

  • Pre-approval: lender reviews documents + credit + actual numbers

What you’ll typically need

  • Income info (pay stubs/1099s)

  • Bank statements

  • ID

  • Credit pull authorization

Triangle-specific note

In popular pockets of Cary/Apex/Holly Springs, sellers don’t want “maybe.” Pre-approval turns you into “ready.”

FAQ:

  • Do I need pre-approval before touring homes? Not always, but it’s smart.

  • How long does pre-approval take? Often 1–3 days if docs are ready.

How long is pre-approval valid? Usually 60–90 days


Want my lender short-list + pre-approval checklist? I’ll send it.