{"id":99196,"date":"2025-03-14T14:34:10","date_gmt":"2025-03-14T21:34:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=99196"},"modified":"2025-03-14T14:34:10","modified_gmt":"2025-03-14T21:34:10","slug":"mortgage-commitment-letter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-commitment-letter\/","title":{"rendered":"Do I Need a Mortgage Commitment Letter? What Homebuyers Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Imagine you\u2019ve found the perfect place &#8211; maybe it\u2019s a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/16904\/CA\/San-Diego\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home in San Diego<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with ocean views or a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/13415\/TN\/Nashville\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nashville condo<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the heart of downtown. Your offer is accepted, and you\u2019re ready to move forward. But before the deal is final, your lender needs to issue a mortgage commitment letter &#8211; a crucial step that signals your financing is solid and closing is within reach.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A mortgage commitment letter is a formal assurance from your lender that your loan has been reviewed and is on track for approval, pending final conditions. In competitive markets, it strengthens your offer by proving you&#8217;re financially ready to close, giving you an edge with sellers. In this Redfin article, we\u2019ll walk you through everything you need to know about mortgage commitment letters.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-96235\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway.jpg\" alt=\"white single family home with black garage doors and large driveway\" width=\"1200\" height=\"799\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway-946x630.jpg 946w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/white-single-family-home-with-black-garage-doors-and-large-driveway-451x300.jpg 451w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is a mortgage commitment letter?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A mortgage commitment letter is a formal document issued by a lender stating that your loan application has been reviewed and approved, pending final conditions. It\u2019s stronger than a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rocketmortgage.com\/learn\/mortgage-preapproval\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">preapproval<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, as it signifies that the lender has completed most of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-underwriting-process\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">underwriting process<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and is confident in lending you the money. However, it\u2019s not the final step &#8211; certain conditions may still need to be met before closing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What\u2019s included in a mortgage commitment letter?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While the exact format varies by lender, most mortgage commitment letters contain:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Loan amount:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The approved mortgage amount.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Loan type:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Whether it\u2019s a conventional, FHA, VA, or jumbo loan.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Interest rate:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The rate at which your loan will accrue interest (may be locked or subject to change).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Loan term:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The repayment period (e.g., 15, 20, or 30 years).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Conditions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Any remaining requirements before full approval, such as an appraisal, proof of homeowners insurance, or final employment verification.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Expiration date:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Mortgage commitment letters typically have an expiration date, meaning you must close on the home before the letter becomes invalid.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you need a mortgage commitment letter?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A mortgage commitment letter isn\u2019t always required, but it can be a helpful step in the homebuying process, especially in competitive markets. This letter, issued by your lender, confirms that you\u2019ve passed the underwriting process and that your loan is officially approved, pending final conditions like an appraisal or title review. While not every lender or seller requires a commitment letter, having one can make your offer more competitive and give you confidence as you move toward closing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why is a mortgage commitment letter important?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A mortgage commitment letter provides both the borrower and the seller with reassurance that the home purchase can proceed smoothly. Here\u2019s why it matters:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b style=\"font-style: inherit;\">\u27a3 It strengthens your offer<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Sellers prefer buyers who are financially secure. A commitment letter shows that your financing is nearly finalized, making your offer more attractive, especially in a competitive <a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/us-housing-market\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">housing market.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b style=\"font-style: inherit;\">\u27a3 It provides loan clarity<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Unlike a preapproval, which is an estimate, a commitment letter offers clear loan details, including the exact amount and terms. This helps you plan for <a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-are-closing-costs\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">closing costs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a style=\"font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-much-does-interest-rate-affect-monthly-payment\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">monthly payments<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b style=\"font-style: inherit;\">\u27a3 It identifies remaining conditions<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Your lender may still require final conditions before issuing full approval. The commitment letter outlines these so you can take action and avoid last-minute surprises.<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Types of mortgage commitment letters<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lenders issue commitment letters in two forms, which indicate different levels of approval:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Conditional mortgage commitment letter<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is the most common type of commitment letter. It means you\u2019re approved as long as you meet certain conditions. These conditions might include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additional documentation (proof of income, tax returns, bank statements)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A satisfactory <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-appraisal\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home appraisal<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A final credit check<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/guides\/buy\/calculate-debt-to-income-ratio\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Debt-to-income ratio<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> verification<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A clear title report<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Final (clear-to-close) mortgage commitment letter<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A final mortgage commitment, also known as a clear-to-close, means the lender has reviewed everything, and the loan is fully approved with no remaining conditions. At this stage:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The home appraisal is complete.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All financial documentation is verified.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Underwriting has given final approval.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The closing date is scheduled.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is the last major financing hurdle before signing closing documents and receiving the keys to your new home.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to get a mortgage commitment letter<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-loan-process\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">process of securing a mortgage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> commitment letter follows these key steps:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Loan preapproval<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you can receive a commitment letter, you typically go through preapproval. This involves:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submitting basic financial information.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having your credit checked.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Receiving an estimate of how much you may be eligible to borrow.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preapproval is not a guarantee of financing, but it gives you an idea of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-much-money-do-i-need-to-buy-a-house\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">your budget<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Full loan application &amp; underwriting<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you\u2019ve made an offer on a home, you\u2019ll formally apply for a mortgage. This kicks off the underwriting process, where the lender thoroughly reviews your financials. You\u2019ll need to provide:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tax returns and W-2s from the past two years.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recent pay stubs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bank statements.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Proof of assets and debts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identification and Social Security number.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The lender will also:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Verify your employment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Order a credit check.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Review your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Order a property appraisal to confirm the home\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/assessed-value-vs-market-value\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">market value<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Issuance of the commitment letter<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the lender completes underwriting, they will issue a mortgage commitment letter outlining your loan terms and conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Does a mortgage commitment letter mean you\u2019re approved?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not necessarily. A commitment letter is a strong step toward full approval, but it is not a guarantee. Until you receive final clearance (often called &#8220;clear to close&#8221;), your loan is still contingent on meeting the conditions listed in the letter.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What could still go wrong?<\/span><\/i><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even after receiving a commitment letter, certain things could jeopardize your mortgage approval:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Financial changes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Making a large purchase (e.g., a car) or opening new credit lines can affect your debt-to-income ratio.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Job loss or income reduction:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Lenders verify employment before closing. Any sudden income changes could delay or cancel your approval.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Low appraisal:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If the home appraises for less than expected, the lender may not approve the full loan amount, requiring renegotiation or a larger down payment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Unresolved title issues:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Problems with property ownership or outstanding liens could prevent the loan from closing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-85454\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199.jpg\" alt=\"businesswoman smiles while showing a document to a male associate.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/GettyImages-1181008199-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>FAQ: Answers to common questions about mortgage commitment letters<\/b><\/h2>\n<h3>What\u2019s the difference between preapproval, prequalification, and mortgage commitment?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many homebuyers confuse these terms. Here\u2019s how they differ:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<table style=\"height: 243px;\" width=\"1989\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Stage<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>What it means<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>How strong is it?<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prequalification<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic estimate based on self-reported information<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weak, no real verification.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Preapproval<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lender reviews some financials &amp; <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/four-cs-of-credit\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">credit<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stronger, but not a guarantee.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Commitment letter<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Full underwriting completed, pending conditions.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Very strong, close to full approval.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3>Can you be denied a home loan after receiving a mortgage commitment letter?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. A mortgage commitment letter is a strong indication of loan approval, but it is not a final guarantee. If something changes in your financial situation (such as job loss, a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-buy-a-house-with-bad-credit\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drop in credit score<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or new debt), the lender may revoke the commitment. Additionally, if you fail to meet the conditions listed in the letter, such as providing required documents or resolving title issues, your loan could be denied before closing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>How long does it take to get a mortgage commitment letter?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The timeline varies depending on your lender and how quickly you provide the required documentation. On average, it takes 20 to 45 days to receive a mortgage commitment letter after submitting a full loan application. The underwriting process, which includes income verification, credit checks, and an appraisal, is the primary factor in determining how long it takes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Can you get a mortgage commitment letter without an appraisal?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most of the time, no. Lenders typically require an appraisal to confirm the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/what-is-my-home-worth\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home\u2019s value<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> before issuing a commitment letter. However, in some cases, such as when using certain conventional loans or<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/home-appraisal\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> appraisal<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> waivers for highly qualified borrowers, a lender may skip the appraisal requirement. This is more common with loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, where automated underwriting systems determine that an appraisal is unnecessary.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>How long after mortgage commitment can I close?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you receive a mortgage commitment letter, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-long-does-it-take-to-close-on-a-house\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">closing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> typically happens within one to three weeks, depending on the conditions outlined in the letter. If all conditions are already met, you may be able to close sooner. However, if additional steps (like employment verification or title clearance) are still pending, closing may take longer.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>What happens if my mortgage commitment letter expires?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most commitment letters have an expiration date, usually 30 to 60 days from the issue date. If your letter expires before closing, your lender may need to reevaluate your financials, potentially requiring updated income verification, credit checks, and even a new appraisal. This could lead to delays or changes in loan terms, especially if interest rates have fluctuated.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Do I need a mortgage commitment letter for a cash offer?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No. A mortgage commitment letter is only relevant for buyers financing a home purchase with a loan. If you\u2019re making a cash offer, you won\u2019t need one, but sellers may ask for proof of funds, such as a bank statement, to verify you have the money available.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Can I change lenders after receiving a mortgage commitment letter?<\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, but it\u2019s not always advisable. If you switch <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-a-mortgage-lender\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage lenders<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> after receiving a commitment letter, you will have to start the entire underwriting process over again. This can lead to delays and potential changes in loan terms, interest rates, or approval status. However, if your current lender is offering unfavorable terms or you find a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-get-the-best-mortgage-rate\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">significantly better rate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> elsewhere, switching may still be worth considering.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A mortgage commitment letter is a key step in the homebuying process. Learn what it is, why it matters, and how it can help you secure your dream home with confidence.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":523,"featured_media":96235,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"default","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34276],"tags":[3621,34617,4007,34642],"coauthors":[31388],"class_list":["post-99196","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buying-a-home","tag-finance","tag-home-buying-process","tag-home-buyer-tips","tag-mortgage"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v28.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What Is a Mortgage Commitment Letter &amp; Do I Need One? | Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A mortgage commitment letter is a formal approval from your lender. 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