Get a mortgage preapproval!

I'm prompted to write this entry because of a conversation I just had with my sister (not Robin...the other sister LOL).  She is considering making a move and has spoken to "someone at the bank" who told her that she "should be okay" to purchase another property.  THIS IS NOT A PREAPPROVAL! I can't express how many times I've had people tell me they are preapproved for a mortgage, only to find out that their credit hasn't been checked, their debt load and downpayment hasn't been verified, an interest rate hasn't been locked, they've got nothing in writing....and many times, they end up extremely unhappy campers when they fall in love with a home only to find out they are not qualified for the purchase.  Please don't do this to yourself!  The first step in purchasing a home is finding a good Realtor to work with (I suggest the Solowka Sisters!) and the second step is getting a solid purchase preapproval in writing from a mortgage broker whom your Realtor can verify is a solid professional who will be able to process your approval in a timely manner with little to no added stress for you.  Believe me, when you are in the 11th hour of a 5 day conditional period for financing and you  can't reach the person responsible for telling you that you're approved, or your application gets denied because somebody didn't do their preapproval job properly and you can't waive your condition and you lose the deal....nauseating, in a word.  A typical conditional period for financing is 5 business days - a good broker can get this job done for you in 1-2 business days.  So please - if you call me and I'm harping on about "getting preapproved" whether you are my sister or not - it's for your own good!  I'm not trying to be difficult, mean, bossy, controlling....I'm trying to save you aggravation, disappointment and alot of wasted time.  Like a parent would say "one day you'll thank me!".  Happy house hunting! :)