HOME LOANS
Get pre-approved before you fall in love with a house.
Unlock the door to your new home with a mortgage pre approval! We believe getting pre approved should feel less like a chore and more like a celebration. Our friendly family team is here to make this process a breeze for you and your real estate partners. We’re all about bringing good vibes to your home-buying journey!
Secure start. No obligation.
KNOW THE DIFFERENCE
Pre-qualified and pre-approved are not the same thing.
A pre-qualification is typically a quick estimate based on what you report. A true pre-approval is a deeper review that validates the file against lending guidelines, so your offer reads as credible and ready to execute.
Use this as your rule of thumb: pre-qualification is a starting point; pre-approval is the file being validated.
| COMPARE | Pre-Qualification | Pre-Approval |
|---|---|---|
| What it represents | A preliminary estimate of what may be possible based on initial information. | A lending decision-in-progress: the file is reviewed against guidelines so the numbers are dependable. |
| How the numbers are built | Often relies heavily on self-reported income, debts, and assets. | Uses verified inputs and consistent calculations so your price range and payment plan are accurate. |
| Credit review | May use a basic pull or a quick look, depending on who issues it. | A full credit evaluation that surfaces items a listing agent and seller care about. |
| Income and employment | Usually not fully validated, so the figures can shift later. | Reviewed for stability and eligibility so surprises are reduced before you write an offer. |
| Assets and funds-to-close | May be assumed, not confirmed, which can weaken confidence in the offer. | Evaluated for sufficiency and sourcing, helping your offer read as ready to close. |
| Underwriting depth | Typically not touched or only lightly reviewed. | Often reviewed as if it is heading toward underwriting, creating a stronger, cleaner file. |
| How it lands with sellers | Signals interest, but not certainty. | Signals seriousness: you did the work early, so the path to closing is clearer. |
| Best time to use it | Early research stage to understand a rough range. | Before touring seriously and before making offers where acceptance hinges on confidence. |
Swipe to compare
If you are planning to compete for a home, the extra depth of a pre-approval is what turns a number into a credible offer.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
From first call to letter in hand.
So, what’s the buzz? It’s your golden ticket in the housing market! By getting a mortgage pre approval from Brown, you’ll know exactly how much you can borrow, making your home search fun and focused. In this short video, we’ll break down the process—no stress, just good times! With a pre approval in hand, you can shop for your dream home with confidence and a smile.
CHOOSE YOUR PATH
Get pre-approved for the loan that fits.
Pick the program that matches where you are today. Each option below opens a quick, plain-English walkthrough of what it is and when it makes sense.
Conventional
Best if you have steady income and solid credit, and you want the most flexible terms.
FHA
Best if you want a low down payment option and a little more breathing room on credit.
VA
Best if you are an eligible service member or veteran and want a powerful path to homeownership.
USDA
Best if you are buying in an eligible area and want a pathway that can minimize upfront cash.
Jumbo
Best if your price point is above conforming limits and you want underwriting tailored to higher balances.
First-Time Buyer
Best if this is your first purchase and you want a straightforward guide to programs and next steps.
Straight Answers
Questions Buyers Ask Us.
Getting a mortgage is a major financial milestone, and having questions is completely normal. Here are the clear, transparent answers to the most common concerns we hear from future homeowners.
Does getting pre-approved hurt my credit score?
A formal pre-approval does require a hard credit inquiry, which may temporarily lower your score by a few points. However, this impact is minimal, expected, and grouped together if you shop multiple lenders within a 45-day window.
How long is my pre-approval letter valid?
Your pre-approval letter is generally valid for 60 to 90 days. If you haven't found a home within that timeframe, we can easily refresh your documentation to extend it without starting from scratch.
Can I get pre-approved if I'm self-employed?
Absolutely. We regularly work with self-employed buyers and business owners. We typically need two years of personal and business tax returns, alongside recent profit-and-loss statements, to verify your qualifying income.
What is the minimum credit score required?
While requirements vary significantly by loan program, we have structured options for scores starting as low as 580. We review your complete financial picture, not just the raw score.
Does a pre-approval lock in my interest rate?
A standard pre-approval does not lock your rate. However, once you have an accepted offer on a property, we can immediately lock your interest rate to protect you from market fluctuations through closing.
Should I find a house before getting pre-approved?
It is always best to get pre-approved first. It shows sellers you are a serious, qualified buyer, allows you to act quickly in a competitive market, and establishes your exact budget before you fall in love with a property.
What happens if my pre-approval is denied?
A denial is rarely permanent—it usually just means 'not right now.' If you aren't approved immediately, we will provide a clear, step-by-step action plan to improve your credit or finances so you can qualify in the near future.
Do I really need a 20% down payment?
Not at all. We offer loan programs that require as little as 3% to 3.5% down, and some VA or USDA loans require zero down. We will map out the best fit based on your available savings and goals.