First Time Getting Pre-Approved

[Dillon Francis]

Hey BP members. My girlfriend and I would like to purchase our first property to house-hack within the next 6 months. I would like to get pre-approved ahead of time, so that I know how much I am qualified to borrow. This will help me establish a more accurate budget, as well as be more prepared for when I do find the right deal.

My questions are: how does the pre-approval process work if you have a significant other who plans to go in half with you on the mortgage? Do you have to be married in order to use both of your incomes to qualify for a higher amount to be borrowed?

My lender hasn't responded to my questions about this yet, so I figured I would reach out to you guys. Any advice is appreciated!