How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in Milwaukee: A Step-by-Step Guide
Buying a home in Milwaukee? One of the smartest things you can do before house hunting is to get pre-approved for your mortgage. Pre-approval shows sellers you’re serious, gives you a budget, and can help you close faster.
Here's everything you need to know to get mortgage pre-approved - without the stress.
✅ Step 1: Gather Your Documents (Or Let Us Do It For You)
Traditionally, buyers had to hunt down tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements. But now? We can handle most of that for you - digitally.
Thanks to Argyle, a secure verification tool we use at Union Home Mortgage, you can log in once and we'll pull your income and employment docs instantly. It's faster, easier, and more accurate.
Still, here's what we might request:
- Two years of W-2s or tax returns (if not pulled digitally)
- Recent pay stubs or income data (Argyle can help with this)
- Bank statements or proof of assets
- ID and Social Security number
- Credit report (we’ll pull with your consent)
✅ Step 2: Know Your Loan Options
From FHA and VA loans to conventional and USDA loans, there are several ways to finance your Milwaukee home.
- FHA loans offer low down payments for buyers with moderate credit - learn more.
- VA loans are ideal for eligible veterans and active-duty service members - explore VA benefits.
Not sure which loan is right? That's where I come in - I'll guide you through it all. If you’re still comparing loan types, check out my post on FHA vs Conventional Loans in Wisconsin.
✅ Step 3: Work With a Trusted Local Expert
As a Milwaukee-area mortgage loan officer with Union Home Mortgage, I help buyers every day get pre-approved quickly and confidently. I walk you through every step - no jargon, no surprises.
📞 Schedule your free pre-approval call
📩 Or email me at: azeman@uhm.com
✅ Step 4: Let's Run the Numbers
Once I have your info, we'll:
- Check your credit and debt-to-income ratio
- Estimate your home budget
- Get a pre-approval letter you can use right away
Pre-approval usually takes less than 24 - 48 hours once documents are in.
✅ Step 5: Be Smart While You Shop
Once you’re pre-approved:
- Don't open new credit cards or make big purchases
- Don't change jobs without checking with your lender
- Keep saving for closing costs and your down payment
If you need help with down payments, see if you qualify for our Down Payment Grant Program.
🌟 Ready to Get Pre-Approved?
If you're house hunting in Milwaukee, Brookfield, Shorewood, or anywhere in Southeast Wisconsin, I'm here to make your mortgage experience simple, fast, and personalized.
👉 Start your pre-approval now
🗓 Book a 30-min call
Let's take the first step toward homeownership - together.
❓ FAQs
Q: How long does mortgage pre-approval take in Milwaukee?
A: With Union Home Mortgage and Argyle, we can often pre-approve buyers in 24 - 48 hours once docs are received.
Q: Does pre-approval affect my credit?
A: Yes, we run a soft or hard credit check, depending on the scenario - but it's a small hit and worth it.
Q: Can I get pre-approved if I'm self-employed?
A: Absolutely. We'll walk you through income docs and help present your case clearly to underwriting.