[alfred929]

...during the house search process? I am a first-time home buyer. I'd like to find out at what point I should apply for the mortgage loan. Given that rate lock typically expires in 30 days, should I not apply for a loan until I find the home I want to purchase? I fear that if I get pre-approved for a loan without having a home in mind, my rate lock will expire and I will have to reapply and may have to pay more fees. I have excellent credit and all my financial records are in place.Thanks for your advice!

[Shandee]

You need to be prequalified right away. The lender will not lock your rate until you are approved for a loan.

[JSGWM]

At least have an idea of where you would like to live. Get prequalified first to make sure there are no issues; not necessarily with credit. Next step, you would gather all of the necessary documents to give to your lender. Once you are pre-approved, select a knowledgeable Agent and began looking for your home while the loan is in process. Your loan comes to a standstill until you actually put a contract on a property.