Credit & Financial Preparation
Learn how lenders look at your credit and debt, and how to strengthen both before you apply.
10 lessons · about 70 minutes
Lessons in this module
- 1Why Your Credit Score MattersExplains what a credit score is and why it plays an important role in the mortgage process.6 min
- 2Understanding Your Credit ReportExplains what a credit report contains, how to obtain one, and why reviewing it matters before applying for a mortgage.6 min
- 3What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a House?Discusses how credit score requirements for mortgages vary by loan program, lender, and other factors.6 min
- 4How Mortgage Lenders Evaluate Your CreditDescribes the general process and factors lenders use when reviewing an applicant's credit during underwriting.6 min
- 5Understanding Debt-to-Income RatioExplains what debt-to-income ratio is, how it is calculated, and why lenders use it.6 min
- 6Improving Your Credit Before ApplyingPractical, general strategies for strengthening a credit profile in the months before applying for a mortgage.6 min
- 7Managing Credit Cards Before BuyingGuidance on how to handle credit card balances, applications, and usage responsibly while preparing to buy a home.6 min
- 8Student Loans and Your MortgageExplains how student loan debt is generally factored into mortgage qualification and what borrowers should know.6 min
- 9Car Loans and Other DebtDiscusses how car loans and other consumer debt factor into mortgage qualification and overall financial readiness.6 min
- 10Financial Mistakes to Avoid Before ClosingHighlights common financial missteps buyers make between mortgage approval and closing, and how to avoid them.6 min
Educational content only — not financial, legal, or tax advice.