Check your reports first
Pull all three credit reports and confirm everything is accurate before a lender sees them. Dispute errors early — investigations take time.
Know your numbers
Know your score range, your DTI and how a new payment fits your budget. Lenders will calculate these anyway; it's better if you already have.
Pre-qualify with soft pulls
Use pre-qualification tools that don't affect your score to compare realistic offers before formally applying.
Gather your documents
Recent pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements and ID. Having them ready shortens approval time and shows lenders you're organized.
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