You’re one step closer to holding the keys—but don’t stop here.
Congratulations! Getting pre-approved is a major milestone in your home buying journey. It shows sellers, agents, and lenders that you’re serious, qualified, and ready to make a move.
But let’s be clear: pre-approval isn’t the finish line—it’s the launch pad.
To keep your momentum strong and avoid costly mistakes, here are 10 smart next steps every buyer should take immediately after getting pre-approved.
✅ 1. Stay Financially Still
Hold off on big purchases, applying for new credit cards, or changing jobs. Even small changes can affect your credit score or debt-to-income ratio, which could jeopardize your loan approval down the road.
Pro tip: If it affects your income, debt, or credit—talk to your loan officer first.
✅ 2. Partner with a Trusted Real Estate Agent
If you haven’t already, now’s the time to choose an experienced agent. A great agent helps you move faster, spot red flags, negotiate better terms, and access listings before they hit the public market.
✅ 3. Set Your Realistic Budget
Just because you’re pre-approved for $600,000 doesn’t mean you should spend it all. Factor in your monthly comfort zone, future expenses, and emergency savings.
✅ 4. Organize Your Documents
Keep your W-2s, tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements handy. If underwriting needs additional verification, you’ll be glad they’re ready to go.
✅ 5. Make a Must-Have vs. Nice-to-Have List
Write down your non-negotiables (e.g. 3 bedrooms, parking, commute time) and your wish list items (e.g. fireplace, upgraded kitchen). This will streamline your search and help avoid emotional decision-making.
✅ 6. Start Touring Homes
Attend open houses, schedule private showings, and get a feel for what’s available in your price range. Seeing real homes sharpens your instincts on value and location.
✅ 7. Get an Updated Closing Cost Estimate
Your pre-approval letter doesn’t include closing costs—so request a full estimate from your lender. This helps you plan how much cash you’ll need when it’s time to close.
✅ 8. Set Up Property Alerts
Use your agent’s MLS portal or apps like Zillow and Redfin to receive real-time notifications for new listings that meet your criteria.
✅ 9. Prepare for Deposits
When you submit an offer, you’ll likely need to include an earnest money deposit (also known as a good faith deposit). Make sure you have accessible funds ready for when the time comes.
✅ 10. Stay in Touch with Your Loan Officer (That’s Me!)
If anything changes—your income, credit, savings, or goals—let’s talk before you make any moves. I’m here to guide you, answer questions, and help you strategize your next step.
💬 Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re ready to tour homes, ask a few questions, or want a custom home buying plan—I’m here to help.
📩 Schedule a Free Call | 📥 Download Your Printable Checklist (PDF)
📺 Or subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly home buying tips and neighborhood insights.
Written by Marc Giles
Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator & Real Estate Agent
Serving New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut
📞 (917) 721-5415 | 📧 Homes@marcgiles.com | 🌐 www.MarcGiles.com
Would you like me to turn this into a downloadable PDF lead magnet or create a matching email autoresponder to go with it?
