Once you've confirmed your eligibility and understand your VA entitlement, the next step is getting pre-approved. This isn’t just a formality—it’s your passport to a confident and competitive home search. A solid pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re serious, qualified, and ready to buy.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what pre-approval means, how to get it, and why it’s such a critical step in your VA homebuying journey in South Florida.

What Is a VA Loan Pre-Approval?

Pre-approval is a lender’s conditional commitment to lend you a specific amount of money. It’s based on your credit history, income, employment, and overall financial profile.

While it’s not a loan guarantee, pre-approval gives you a clear picture of what you can afford—and strengthens your negotiating position when you find the right property.

Why Pre-Approval Matters

• Sets your homebuying budget: Know your price range before you shop

• Makes your offer stronger: Sellers are more likely to choose your offer if you're pre-approved

• Saves time: You’ll avoid wasting time on homes that don’t fit your financial profile

• Identifies issues early: If there’s anything that might hold up your loan, you’ll know ahead of time

What You’ll Need to Provide

To get pre-approved, your lender will ask for the following documents:

• Proof of military service (typically your DD-214 or Statement of Service)

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

• Government-issued ID

• Two years of tax returns

• W-2s or pay stubs

• Bank statements

• A list of your monthly debts and expenses

The process is usually fast—some lenders issue same-day pre-approvals.

Choosing a VA-Experienced Lender

Not all lenders are created equal. A VA-savvy lender understands how to:

• Calculate residual income and debt-to-income ratios correctly

• Navigate VA-specific property and appraisal requirements

• Identify whether you qualify for a funding fee exemption

A knowledgeable lender will also help you avoid delays and make sure your financing stays on track all the way to closing.

What Happens After Pre-Approval?

Once you’re pre-approved, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter stating how much you’re approved to borrow. From there:

• Connect with a real estate agent who understands VA loans

• Start shopping for homes within your approved range

• Submit offers with confidence

Final Thoughts

Pre-approval is more than paperwork—it’s the start of your path to finding a home you love with confidence and clarity. In a competitive South Florida market, being prepared makes all the difference.

As your South Florida Regional Director and a proud member of the Compass Military Division, I’m here to make sure veterans and their families are equipped for success. Our team of veterans and spouses is dedicated to walking you through the homebuying process with care, strategy, and deep knowledge of VA loans.

I’m Celia Ruiz, and I’m honored to support your journey every step of the way.

Stay tuned for our next post: "How Much Home Can You Afford in South Florida?”