How Long Is a Preapproval for a Mortgage Good For?

Some or all of the mortgage lenders featured on our site are advertising partners of NerdWallet, but this does not influence our evaluations, lender star ratings or the order in which lenders are listed on the page. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners.
A typical mortgage preapproval letter is valid for up to 90 days, though that can vary by lender. The letter from your lender tentatively estimates how much it is willing to lend you, and on what terms. This can give you a more realistic budget for your home search.
A mortgage preapproval letter also demonstrates to home sellers that you can likely secure financing to back up your offer, indicating that you’re a serious buyer.
Mortgage loans from our partners

on New American Funding
on New American Funding

on GO Mortgage
GO Mortgage
4.0
NerdWallet rating
4.0
NerdWallet ratingon GO Mortgage
Mortgage loans from our partners

on New American Funding
on New American Funding

on GO Mortgage
GO Mortgage
4.0
NerdWallet rating
4.0
NerdWallet ratingon GO Mortgage
on Veterans United