Thinking about buying your first home? In this episode of The Dirt on Real Estate, host Will Bennett, Licensed Utah Realtor, sits down with mortgage expert Casey Bentley to walk you through the mortgage pre-approval process—a crucial first step in home buying. Learn what lenders look for, how to boost your credit, and how down payment assistance programs can make homeownership more accessible, especially in today's competitive Utah Real Estate market.

You’ll hear Casey break down the four key elements lenders evaluate—credit, income, debt, and down payment—and why getting pre-approved early can help you take advantage of limited-time programs and avoid last-minute surprises. The episode also covers how pre-approvals affect your home search, the documentation you’ll need, and how to work backward from your ideal monthly payment to find the right home price range for your budget.

You'll also get timely updates on interest rates, when to lock in your rate, and the difference between what you can afford and what you should spend. Whether you're just starting your search or already talking to agents, this episode offers practical tips and expert advice to help you navigate Utah Real Estate with confidence. Plus, find out why “date the rate, marry the home” might be the smartest mindset for today’s buyers.

____________

Questions about Utah Real Estate?

Call or Text me: 435-395-9135

Email me: wbennett@gutahrealestate.com

Video: https://youtu.be/BeYasgWdZ8g

TheDirtonRealEstate.com

Casey Bentley: https://www.instagram.com/bentleyadvisers?igsh=cHQxamd5bXdmbTVm