Dollars & Distractions – Episode 6: Pre-Approval First, Property Second - Why Timing Matters More Than You Think

About this episode

This episode discusses the importance of obtaining a pre-approval before signing a property contract to avoid unnecessary stress and complications in the home buying process.

Episode Summary In this episode of Dollars and Destructions, we’re diving into a topic that can make or break your home buying journey… pre-approvals. We’ve been seeing a growing trend lately, buyers signing contracts before their finance is properly sorted, and honestly… it’s creating a lot of unnecessary stress (for you and for us 😅). So today, we’re breaking down: What a pre-approval actually is The difference between “quick” vs fully assessed pre-approvals The risks of skipping this step And how getting organised upfront can save you time, money, and a whole lot of pressure If you’re thinking about buying, or even just starting to look, this episode is a must-listen. What We Cover 💡 What is a Pre-Approval (and why it matters) Not all pre-approvals are created equal. We explain the difference between: A computer-generated (generic) pre-approval A fully assessed pre-approval by a lender Spoiler alert… one of these gives you real confidence, the other not so much. ⚠️ The Risk of Signing a Contract Too Early We’re seeing more buyers: Signing contracts before finance is approved Rushing decisions due to competition in the market Backing themselves into tight finance deadlines…

People in this episode

Host: Maryanne Elliott

Topics covered

• pre-approval
• home buying
• finance
• real estate
• timing
• stress management

Keywords

• pre-approval
• home buying
• finance
• real estate
• stress
• timing
• lender

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• Dollars & Distractions - Episode 13 Credit Cards, Offsets & The Banking Structure People Forgot About · June 3, 2026 · 16 min
• Dollars & Distractions – Episode 12 Getting Into the Mortgage Broking Industry, The Truth No One Talks About · May 27, 2026 · 30 min
• Dollars & Distractions – Episode 11 ADHD & Money, Impulse vs Intention · May 20, 2026 · 26 min
• Dollars & Distractions – Episode 10 Couples, Money & The Conversations No One Has · May 13, 2026 · 30 min
• Dollars & Distractions – Episode 9 The Emotional Side of Buying Property, Finding the Balance Between Head and Heart · May 6, 2026 · 22 min