Buy Your Dream Home With Confidence
A common rule: your mortgage payment should not exceed 28% of gross monthly income, and total debt payments should stay under 36%.
Conventional loans accept 3% down, FHA loans 3.5%, and VA/USDA loans 0% down for qualifying buyers. 20% down avoids PMI.
Most pre-approval letters are valid for 60–90 days. You can renew by submitting updated paystubs.
Pre-qualified is an informal estimate based on self-reported info. Pre-approved involves a credit check and documented income verification — sellers take these seriously.
Ranked using our independent 5-factor methodology.
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