Home Loan Pre-Approvals: Follow These 4 Steps for Success

Step-by-Step Guide to Home Loan Pre-Approval

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. Before making an offer, you need to know how much you can borrow. That’s where home loan pre-approval comes in.

Pre-approval, also called conditional approval, is an estimate from a lender of how much you can borrow. It doesn’t guarantee final loan approval, but it gives you an edge when negotiating with sellers. Here’s how to secure home loan pre-approval in four simple steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Financial Information

Lenders need a complete picture of your finances to determine how much you can borrow. You’ll need to provide:

✔ Income Proof – Recent payslips, tax returns, and financial statements if self-employed.
✔ Assets & Liabilities – Property deeds, savings account statements, and investment records.
✔ Loan & Credit Details – Statements of existing loans, credit card limits, and ongoing financial commitments.
✔ Living Expenses – Monthly expenses, including rent, bills, groceries, and discretionary spending.

This information helps you estimate how much you can borrow. Online mortgage calculators can give you a rough idea before meeting with a lender.

Step 2: Meet with a Lender or Mortgage Broker

Once you have your financial documents ready, schedule a meeting with a lender or mortgage broker.

🔹 Lenders work directly with banks and financial institutions to provide loans.
🔹 Mortgage brokers compare loan options from different lenders to find the best deal for you.

During the meeting, they’ll assess your financial situation and calculate an estimated borrowing amount. If you decide to proceed, you’ll complete a home loan pre-approval application.

Step 3: Undergo a Credit Check

Lenders will perform a credit check to assess your financial history. A strong credit score improves your chances of securing pre-approval and accessing lower interest rates.

What lenders look for:
✔ No history of missed payments or defaults
✔ Low credit card balances
✔ A stable income and employment history

If your credit score isn’t ideal, you may need to improve it before applying for home loan pre-approval. Reducing credit card limits and paying off outstanding debts can help.

Step 4: Receive Conditional Approval

If your credit check is successful, you’ll receive a conditional approval certificate. This certificate is valid for 90 days and provides an estimate of how much you can borrow.

Important things to remember:
✔ Pre-approval is not a guarantee of final loan approval.
✔ Additional checks will be required before finalising the loan.
✔ Borrowing capacity may change based on property valuation and lending policies.

With your home loan pre-approval, you can confidently start house hunting, knowing your budget and financial standing.

What Happens After Pre-Approval?

Once you find a home and make an offer, you’ll need to apply for full loan approval. The lender will reassess your financial situation and conduct a final property valuation. If approved, you’ll receive formal loan documentation to sign before settlement.

Getting pre-approved is an essential step in the home-buying journey. If you need help navigating the process, contact our team today!

Final Thoughts on Home Loan Pre-Approval

Why Pre-Approval Matters

Securing home loan pre-approval allows you to:

• Understand your borrowing power
• Gain an advantage over other buyers
• Streamline the loan application process

If you’re preparing to buy a home, getting pre-approved can make the process smoother. Our team can guide you through your options and help you secure home loan pre-approval faster.

Call us at (03) 8393 1000 or email us at champions@parisfinancial.com.au to get started.

Hayley Crow is a Credit Representative (CR No: 486223) of Buyers Choice Licencing Pty Ltd ACN 626 172 281 (Australian Credit Licence No: 509484)