Most buyers receive a pre-approval decision within 24–48 hours after submitting required documentation. Timing may vary depending on employment type and documentation complexity.

Pre-approvals typically remain valid for 60–90 days. If your home search extends beyond that window, updated documentation may be required.

A mortgage pre-approval requires a credit pull, which may cause a small temporary dip in your score. Multiple mortgage inquiries within a short window are generally treated as a single inquiry.

Minimum credit score requirements vary by loan program. Conventional loans often require higher scores than FHA or VA programs. A mortgage advisor can review your options.

Yes. Self-employed borrowers typically need to provide two years of tax returns and may require additional income documentation.

In competitive Northern New Jersey markets, sellers strongly prefer — and often require — a pre-approval letter before accepting an offer.