Buyer resources
Raleigh Realty does not make loans, and you can choose any lender. Fill out the form below to start your pre-approval, and your agent can help you read the letter before you make an offer.
What a pre-approval is
A mortgage pre-approval is a lender's written estimate of how much you can borrow, based on your credit, income, and assets. Getting one before you tour homes in Raleigh tells you which price range to search. We suggest sending the letter with every offer you write.
Cash due at contract
In North Carolina, plan for the cash due at contract as well as your down payment. Under the NC REALTORS® Offer to Purchase and Contract (Form 2-T, revised July 2026), the due diligence fee is due on the date the contract becomes effective, and the earnest money deposit is due within five days. Both count toward your purchase at closing, but you pay them before your loan funds.
Due diligence fee
Due on the date the contract becomes effective
Earnest money deposit
Due within five days
Before you shop
Which property tax rate did you use?
Rates change by town. Inside Raleigh city limits, the FY2026-27 rate is 90.91 cents per $100 (Wake County 53.71 plus City of Raleigh 37.20), about $3,636 a year on a $400,000 home. Wake County's next revaluation takes effect January 1, 2027.
Did you include HOA dues?
Many Raleigh condos and townhomes carry monthly dues, and the lender counts them in your payment.
Do you work with down payment assistance?
City of Raleigh and Wake County assistance both require an approved lender, so ask before you apply. Our first-time home buyer programs guide lists the current options.
When does this letter expire?
Ask for an updated letter if your price range or finances change.
Not sure whether you need a pre-qualification or a full pre-approval? See pre-approval vs. pre-qualification. For the documents most lenders ask for, see our mortgage pre-approval steps. When you are ready to tour, read how we work with Raleigh home buyers.