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Can I switch mortgage lenders after I've already signed a purchase agreement?

My offer on a house in Ohio was just accepted, and I used a pre-approval letter from a local bank. However, a mortgage broker I spoke with earlier just called back offering a significantly lower interest rate and fewer origination fees. We are scheduled to close in about 35 days. Am I locked in with the original bank since their name was on the pre-approval letter submitted to the seller, or is it safe to switch without risking my earnest money?

Asked by Marina | Cleveland, OH| 05-01-2026| 7 views|Home Loans|Updated 17 hours ago

Answers (3)

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Keith Jean Pierre

REMAX First Realty · East Brunswick, NJ

(151 reviews)
Marina, you are able to switch mortgage lenders at this time of your contract as you have not received a mortgage commitment. Best of luck with your purchase. Keith Jean-Pierre Managing Principal The Dapper Agents Operations In: NY, NJ, FL & CA
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05-01-2026 (8 hours ago)··
Loodmy Jacques

Keller Williams Reserve · West Palm Beach, FL

(25 reviews)
You're not locked in. You can switch lenders anytime before you lock your rate with the original bank. The pre-approval letter doesn't obligate you to use that lender. Just move fast. 35 days is tight, so make sure the new lender can close on time. Ask them if they can hit your closing date and what they need from you to make it happen. If they miss the deadline, you could lose your earnest money or the deal could fall through. Let your real estate agent know you're switching so they can give the seller a heads-up if needed. Most sellers don't care as long as you close on time, but communication helps. Get everything in writing from the new lender - the rate, fees, and timeline. Don't switch unless you're confident they can deliver. Missing your closing date is way worse than paying slightly higher fees.
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05-01-2026 (16 hours ago)··
Juston PucharNovice3 Answers
Juston Puchar

Utah Real Estate · Midvale, UT

(64 reviews)
You have plenty of time to make a switch. Generally, I follow the transparency model. Let them know why you are switching and what is important to you. They will probably do everything possible to try to keep and earn your business. If you switch, that's fine, but at least you will feel good knowing you let them match or beat it. ps the grass isn't always greener, good luck making the best decision. Your agent should also be able to help you with this decision process.
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05-01-2026 (15 hours ago)··
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