Get Pre-Approved
Get Pre-Approved. Shop With Confidence.
Know your budget before you find the home you love.
I’ll help you understand your loan options, monthly payment, and cash needed, so when the right home comes along, you and your agent are ready with a plan.
Just exploring? Start a One-Minute Quote. No credit pull to get started.
Find the answers before you find the house
Browsing homes online is exciting. Finding the perfect one before understanding your financing can quickly become stressful.
- Do I qualify?
- How much down payment will I need?
- Are there first-time homebuyer options?
- Should I ask the seller to cover closing costs or a buydown?
- Do I have an agent?
Pre-approval helps answer these questions early. You’ll understand your buying power, and your agent can use your financing plan to help prepare an offer and negotiate the transaction.
You don’t need all the answers before we talk. I’ll help you work through them.
Your pre-approval, step by step
Step 1: Start with your goals
Let’s discuss where you want to buy, your timeline, a comfortable monthly payment, and how much cash you want to use while keeping reserves available.
Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating, or selling another property, we’ll build your financing plan around your situation.
Step 2: Apply securely
Complete your secure application, and I’ll help you identify the supporting documents needed to review your income, employment, assets, and debts.
You’ll receive guidance on what to provide and help with questions along the way.
Step 3: Review credit and qualifications
With your authorization, we’ll obtain the credit reporting needed for your application and review your overall financial picture.
I’ll explain how your credit, income, debts, and available funds affect your options. If something needs attention, we’ll discuss practical next steps early.
Step 4: Explore programs and upfront costs
We’ll compare suitable loan programs, down payment requirements, mortgage insurance, and any applicable first-time homebuyer or assistance options.
You’ll also understand the difference between your down payment, closing costs, and prepaid expenses, and whether eligible gift funds, seller concessions, lender credits, or a temporary buydown could fit your plan.
Step 5: Compare your options and set your budget
I’ll personally walk you through a detailed comparison, with a cost analysis for each financing option. Together, we’ll review the loan program, interest rate, monthly payment, upfront costs, and total cost over the time you expect to keep the mortgage.
The lowest rate doesn’t always mean the lowest overall cost. Understanding your timeline helps us identify which option fits your goals, then establish a comfortable shopping range and maximum purchase price.
Calculators provide estimates. Your personalized review helps establish your financing plan.
Step 6: Get your letter and shop with confidence
Once the necessary review is complete and you meet the applicable requirements, I’ll provide your pre-approval letter and explain any remaining conditions.
With your permission, I’ll coordinate with your agent on the financing details that matter to your offer. When you find a home, we can update the property-specific numbers and tailor your letter to the offer.
Your pre-approval helps show sellers you’re a serious, prepared buyer.
Understand rates before you lock
Mortgage rates can change while you’re shopping. Understanding how rates work, and what locking a loan means, helps you make informed decisions when the time comes.
I’ll explain how rates, points, and lender credits affect your costs, along with your available lock periods and timing considerations.
Explore the video library for educational resources, and ask me about understanding mortgage rates and locking your loan.
Sign Up for My Weekly Rate Tracker to stay informed about what’s moving the market as you work through the homebuying process.
Guidance and updates through closing
My help continues after pre-approval. While you shop, I can review estimates for specific homes and answer financing questions.
Once you’re under contract, you and your agent receive detailed Status Updates at key milestones, so you know where things stand, what comes next, and what’s needed from you.
Need a professional agent?
Tell me where you’re looking to buy, and I’ll help connect you with a highly qualified agent who knows the area.
Already have an agent? Great! Let’s work together on your homebuying plan.
You are free to choose your own real estate agent.
Let’s take the first step together.
Bring your questions. I’ll help you understand your options and prepare to buy with confidence.
Frank Ellerbroek | NMLS #128726
Vantage Mortgage Brokers | NMLS #35986
Serving Washington, Oregon, and Idaho
Equal Housing Opportunity. Pre-approval is conditional and is not a commitment to lend. Final approval is subject to underwriting, verification, property eligibility, and satisfaction of loan conditions. Rates, terms, and programs are subject to change.