The practice by a lender of approving a borrower for a certain loan amount. This allows prospective homebuyers to shop with the knowledge, likely to be shared with a seller and broker to demonstrate their financial capability, that the loan will be approved. See Mortgage (LOAN) Pre-Approval.
Example: Peter and Pamela Shea are searching for a new home in New Jersey. They went to a potential lender who pre-approved them for a $250,000 loan. They submitted a purchase offer at the sametime and amount as another family. The seller is likely to accept the Sheas' offer with the knowledge that their loan will be processed expeditiously.


