My opinion (and this is an opinion) is that a pre-approval letter, while required somewhat frequently, is basically a waste of paper. The ONLY thing it tells a seller is that you have given information to someone in the mortgage business and they think they can get you a loan if what you told them holds true. There are so many factors that can affect whether or not you "get the house" to place a percentage on it would be impossible.
Having said that, I strongly suggest that buyers meet with 3 mortgage contacts (usually 2 brokers and 1 banker) to discuss payments, rates, different types of loans, and such so that the buyer can make an informed decision as to how much to borrow and how to borrow it.
I hope that helps. If you need help finding the property to go with your pre-approval, let me know.
Kevin Griesser
Buyers' Agent
Elk Creek Realty
502-664-9161 - Fri Nov 27 2009, 18:00