Quick Summary: Getting pre-approved in West Palm Beach typically involves a lender reviewing your credit, income, assets, and debt, collecting key documents, and issuing a formal pre-approval letter you can use when making offers. Most buyers receive a decision within 1–3 business days, although same-day reviews are possible with complete documentation. The process is straightforward when you know what to expect—and CTC Mortgage is here to guide you every step of the way.

What Is a Mortgage Pre-Approval?

A mortgage pre-approval is a lender’s written determination of how much you can borrow and under what terms. In West Palm Beach and across Palm Beach County, sellers often expect buyers to include a pre-approval letter with offers—especially in competitive neighborhoods where well‑qualified buyers move quickly.

Working with CTC Mortgage gives you an advantage. Our team reviews your financial profile, answers local market questions, and prepares you for the next steps in your homebuying journey.

How to Get Pre-Approved in West Palm Beach, FL

1. Connect with a local lender. Start by speaking with a licensed loan officer at CTC Mortgage in West Palm Beach.
2. Complete the loan application. You’ll provide personal information, employment history, and asset details.
3. Upload supporting documents. W‑2 employees and self-employed borrowers will have slightly different requirements (listed below).
4. Undergo a credit and financial review. Your lender evaluates your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, income stability, and assets.
5. Receive your pre-approval letter. Once approved, CTC Mortgage will issue a formal letter outlining your estimated loan amount.

 

What Documents Do You Need?

For W‑2 Employees

• Most recent 30 days of pay stubs
• W‑2s from the past two years
• Bank statements (checking, savings, investments)
• Government-issued ID

For Self-Employed Borrowers

• Two years of federal tax returns (personal and business)
• Year-to-date profit and loss statement
• Business bank statements
• Corporate documents (if applicable)

Good news: CTC Mortgage also offers alternative documentation programs such as bank statement loans, DSCR loans, and other Non‑QM options designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and self‑employed professionals.

What Lenders Check During Pre-Approval

All lenders evaluate several key factors when determining your eligibility:

• Credit score – Shows your history of repayment and credit usage.
• Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio – Compares monthly debt obligations to gross income.
• Employment and income stability – Ensures you can reliably repay your loan.
• Assets and reserves – Verifies your ability to cover down payment and closing costs.
• Property type and location – Condos, townhomes, new construction, and HOA communities may have additional requirements in Palm Beach County.

How Long Does a Pre-Approval Last?

Most mortgage pre-approvals are valid for 60–90 days. If you’re still shopping after that window, refreshing your pre-approval is usually quick—CTC Mortgage simply updates your credit report and recent financial documents.

Common Questions from Palm Beach County Buyers

1. What about condos and HOAs?

Palm Beach County has many condo communities. Lenders review HOA budgets, insurance coverage, occupancy percentages, and financial health. Working with a local lender familiar with West Palm Beach and surrounding areas helps you avoid surprises.

2. How does Florida homeowners insurance affect pre-approval?

Insurance can be a meaningful part of your monthly payment. Premiums vary by location, age of home, roof type, and wind‑mitigation updates. Your loan officer will estimate insurance so your pre-approval amount remains accurate.

3. How long does it take to close after pre-approval?

Once you are under contract, most closings in the West Palm Beach area take 25–35 days, depending on the loan program and property type.

Local Tip: Know the Nearby Markets

CTC Mortgage works with homebuyers throughout Palm Beach County, including Palm Beach Gardens, Wellington, Lake Worth, and Boynton Beach. These nearby communities each have unique price points, property types, and HOA structures—so having a local lender helps streamline expectations from the beginning.

Run the Numbers Before You Shop

Use our mortgage calculators to estimate payments and compare loan types, including FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA, Jumbo, and Non‑QM programs.

Start Your Pre-Approval with CTC Mortgage

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating to West Palm Beach, or purchasing a second home or investment property, CTC Mortgage is ready to help you get pre-approved quickly and confidently.

Contact us today to begin your pre-approval and get one step closer to homeownership.