Mike, begin your discussions early with some of the local real estate lending agencies in Huntsville (credit unions, etc...) Some of these manage their lowns in-house, are finding some difficulty finding crecit0worthy people to loan to. You may do better than with a larger firm. Thre is no cost or obligation of running through the pre-approval process (except your time). Assuming your jobs have been offered on a stable basis, I would think you will be in very good position to secure a prime real estate loan for your purchase. - Fri Jan 11 2008, 22:05