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• Pre-qualification can be the first step to the loan application process before looking to buy a home on the market. The mortgage lender will use details you provide about your credit, income, assets and debts to arrive at an estimated mortgage you may afford. The whole process is quick and free.

• A "pre-qual" is non-binding to the lender (because the information you provide has not been verified). It still serves as a good indicator of your general creditworthiness.

• Most sellers will not accept an offer without at least a pre-approval letter. This is the next step towards your new home purchase.

• There is no requirement to use the preferred lender to obtain a mortgage after you have been pre-qualified or pre-approved with the lender.