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Why Getting Pre-Approved Early Can Save You More Than Just Time

April 28, 2026 by Robby Oakes

One of the biggest advantages of getting pre-approved early is that it removes guesswork. Many buyers start searching for homes based on rough estimates or online calculators, which often do not reflect their true financial situation.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Buying, Mortgage Tips, Pre-Approval

The Pre-Approval Conversation You Should Have With Yourself First

March 3, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Pre-approval is often treated as the green light to shop at the top of a budget. However, the most successful buyers begin with a deeper conversation about comfort, lifestyle, and risk tolerance. A lender can determine what is possible, but only the buyer can determine what feels sustainable. Aligning personal comfort with financial approval creates long term stability.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tagged With: Buyer Education, Mortgage Planning, Pre-Approval

Pre-approval vs. Pre-qualification

December 12, 2023 by Robby Oakes

Pre-qualification and pre-approval are two terms commonly used in the context of obtaining a mortgage or other types of loans. While they may sound similar, they have different meanings.

Filed Under: Home Mortgages Tagged With: Mortgage, Pre-Approval, Pre-qualification

Will Pre-Approval for a Mortgage Hurt My Credit Score?

June 9, 2023 by Robby Oakes

To understand how pre-approval affects your credit, we need to discuss credit inquiries. When you apply for credit, such as a loan or credit card, the lender typically pulls your credit report to assess your creditworthiness. These inquiries are categorized as either “hard” or “soft.”

Filed Under: Mortgage Tagged With: Credit Score, Mortgage, Pre-Approval

What Items Can Change My Mortgage Pre-Approval Status?

February 23, 2023 by Robby Oakes

When you are purchasing a home, your lender may recommend you obtain a mortgage pre-approval before you find the home of your dreams. There are some benefits to being pre-approved before you find a home, but oftentimes, people confuse pre-qualifications with pre-approvals.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tagged With: Assets, Mortgage, Pre-Approval

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Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

CIMG Managing  Director
NMLS# 91606

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