Start with the budget
Choose a monthly housing range that leaves room for other goals and surprises. A maximum approval amount is not a spending target.
Borrowing readiness guide
Prepare for a mortgage before you apply
A lender decides whether to lend; this guide helps you arrive with cleaner information, a realistic budget and better questions.
Before you apply
A practical preparation sequence.
Review the source data
Use the federally authorized site to review your reports from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Investigate unfamiliar or inaccurate information before application day.
Organize the paper trail
Gather current income, asset and debt documentation. Ask a prospective lender what it will require for your employment and loan type.
Compare complete offers
Compare APR, rate, points, lender credits, closing costs, cash to close and loan terms—not just the advertised monthly payment.
Compare the whole offer
Look beyond the headline number.
Rate and APR
The interest rate is one cost. APR combines the rate with certain loan fees and is designed to make offers easier to compare.
Cash and reserves
Separate the down payment from closing costs, moving expenses and the emergency cushion you want to keep.
Timeline
Ask when documents, rate decisions and closing funds are due so the process does not force a rushed decision.
Primary sources
Verify the details at the source.
These guides summarize general educational information. Product terms and individual circumstances vary.
Turn reading into a plan
Find the next move for your goal.
The free check takes about two minutes. It does not request your SSN, pull a credit report or promise approval.
Check my readinessEducational information only. BorrowAware is not a lender, credit bureau, credit-repair organization or financial adviser. We do not guarantee approval, rates, score changes or outcomes.