Using pre-approval as leverage when shopping around for a mortgage can give you a competitive edge – so it's worth exploring! To get pre-approved, you will need to provide documentation such as tax returns, pay stubs or bank statements. Additionally, consider making bi-weekly payments instead of monthly ones. This means that no matter what happens to rates in the future, your monthly payment won't change! On the other hand, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) offer borrowers lower initial interest rates than fixed-rate loans; however, these rates may increase after an introductory period. Moreover, applicants must provide proof of their income and credit score to prove they're capable of making payments on time. Pre-approvals are valid for usually up to 90 days, so make sure you're ready to move fast if you find the right offer.
What Is a Reverse Mortgage and How Does It Work?