Pre-Approval Should Be Your First Step. Knowing what you can afford saves time and avoids disappointment. It also gives you the opportunity to work with your mortgage loan officer to find out what you might need to do to increase the amount you qualify for and to clean up any "surprises" that can sneak into a credit report. It is all about strategy. Working with a licensed real estate professional will help you get the home that you want. Checkout today's article