Is getting a Mortgage Pre-approval the first step in the home buying process?

Before you start the house-hunting process, there is an important step you can take that will both save you time and make the process easier: getting pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approval helps you understand the home price you can afford, allowing you to budget for your home purchase and focus your home search. Also, with a pre-approval you will be able to secure a great mortgage rate offer ahead of time and protect yourself from a rate increase during your home search.