Having a pre-approved mortgage will give you the confidence of knowing exactly what you can spend on a home before you start looking. You will also be protected against interest rate increases while you look for your new home.

Once you've found the home you want to purchase, there are some documents you'll probably be asked for in order to finalize your financing. They will include:

• A copy of the real estate listing of the property. If the home is still to be built, the mortgage lender will need to see the architect's or builder's plans and details on lot size and location.
  
• A copy of the offer to purchase or the building contract, if this document has been prepared.
  
• Documents to confirm employment, income and source of pre-approval.