prequalifying Articles

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Approved for a Home Loan

Whether you’re buying your first home or refinancing, managing your finances carefully is important for getting approved for a home loan. Read on to get actionable tips that can improve your chances of securing the loan you want.

July 18, 2025

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Approved for a Home Loan

July 18, 2025

Affordable Lending: Homebuyer Assistance Programs

Homebuyer assistance programs can help you achieve your homeownership goals by providing down payment assistance, closing cost aid and lower interest rates.

September 11, 2024

Home Buying Not Only a Couples' Game: Results of the Pennymac Single Homeownership Survey

The results are in — and they may surprise you. See what single homeowners shared about their home-buying journey and why they felt fine doing it without a partner.

January 10, 2024

How to Prequalify for a Home Loan

During the pre-qualification process your lender will ask for financial information to determine how much you can borrow. Learn more at Pennymac.

October 12, 2022

What is a Conditional Loan Approval?

A conditional approval is different than both pre-approval and full approval. It relies on specific conditions being met at closing. Learn more.

May 24, 2022

What Is the Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio?

Debt-to-Income ratio (DTI) is the amount of monthly debt you have compared to how much monthly gross income you earn. Learn how to calculate your own DTI and how DTI ratios vary for various types of loans.

May 3, 2018