Define your buying budget
Start with a payment that works for your broader financial life, then work backward to a home price. Leave room for maintenance, moving, furnishings, and unexpected costs.
- Monthly payment target
- Down payment and closing funds
- Emergency savings after closing
Gather the common documents
Exact requirements vary, but organizing the basics early can make the conversation faster and clearer.
- Recent income documentation
- Bank and asset statements
- Photo identification
- Housing and employment history
- Information about other real estate owned
Compare more than the rate
Review loan type, term, estimated payment, mortgage insurance, points or credits, cash to close, and how long you expect to keep the home. The lowest advertised rate is not automatically the best overall fit.
Plan for the contract period
Your real estate agent, lender, attorney where applicable, inspector, appraiser, title company, and insurance professional each handle different parts of the transaction. Know who owns each deadline.
Protect your approval
Keep your financial profile steady before closing. Speak with your loan team before new credit, job changes, large transfers, or significant purchases.