Pre-Approval FAQs Every Louisiana Homebuyer Should Know

by Tracy Mathis

Getting pre-approved is one of the most important early steps in buying a home—but it can also feel confusing if you’ve never done it before.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about getting pre-approved, especially for buyers in the Baton Rouge area.

❓ What is pre-approval?

Pre-approval is a letter from a lender confirming how much they’re willing to lend you, based on your financial picture. It tells sellers you’re serious and gives you a clear home shopping budget.

❓ Is it required to see homes?

Technically, no. But in today’s market, most sellers require a pre-approval letter before accepting offers—and some agents won’t even show homes without it. It gives you credibility and leverage.

❓ Does it affect my credit?

Yes, but only slightly. Most lenders do a soft pull at first, and a hard inquiry later during underwriting. Shopping multiple lenders within a 30-day period typically only counts as one inquiry.

❓ How long does it last?

Most pre-approvals are good for 60 to 90 days. If your home search goes longer, your lender can usually refresh it with updated documents.

❓ What documents do I need?

Expect to submit:

Pay stubs
W-2s or 1099s
Bank statements
Credit check authorization
Proof of assets or debts

✨ What are the benefits?

You’ll shop with confidence
You’ll avoid wasting time on homes outside your budget
You’ll strengthen your offer in competitive markets
You’ll speed up the closing timeline

🏡 Need a trusted lender?
We work with several local experts who can help you get pre-approved quickly and painlessly. Call Tracy at (225) 268-1110 or visit MovingTo225.com to get matched today.