Preqly Blog

Mortgage readiness guides from Preqly — credit scores, lender checks, and practical tips for homebuyers.

• I Was Pre-Approved, Then Denied. What Now?

  A mortgage denial after pre-approval isn't the end of your purchase. Here's how to find the real reason, what you can fix quickly, and when to apply again.

• Mortgage Pre-Approval vs. Prequalification: What's the Difference?

  Prequalification is an estimate. A mortgage pre-approval is a checked decision. Here's the real difference, which letter sellers accept, and how to get one.

• Mortgage Readiness for Self-Employed Borrowers

  Self-employed borrowers qualify on net income after deductions, not deposits. Here's how lenders calculate it, what documents you need, and what to avoid.

• Signs Your Mortgage Will Be Approved

  Waiting on underwriting? Here are the real signs your loan will be approved, the warning signs worth acting on, and what still decides your odds at this stage.

• What Does "Conditionally Approved" Mean on a Mortgage?

  Conditional approval means an underwriter said yes, as long as you clear a list of items. Here's what those conditions are and how close you are to final approval.

• Will I Get Approved for a Mortgage? How to Know Before You Apply

  Find out whether you'll qualify for a home loan before you apply. What lenders check, what actually disqualifies buyers, and how to read your own odds honestly.

• How Much Will I Get Approved For on a Mortgage?

  Your approval amount comes from income, monthly debts, down payment, and rate. Here's how lenders run the math and why your maximum isn't your budget.

• How Long Does Mortgage Pre-Approval Take?

  Mortgage pre-approval can take minutes or several days, and the gap is mostly waiting, not working. Here's what slows it down and how long your letter lasts.

• Does Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage Hurt Your Credit Score?

  A mortgage pre-approval involves a hard credit pull, but the hit is small and short-lived. Here's how much it costs you and why shopping lenders is protected.

• Can You Be Denied a Loan After Pre-Approval?

  Yes, and the reasons are predictable. Here's what causes a mortgage denial after pre-approval, how lenders catch it, and what to avoid until you close.

• Credit Score and Mortgage Readiness: What Lenders Actually Check

  Mortgage lenders use a different score than your banking app shows, and they read far more than the number. Here's what's in your report and how to improve it.