Before choosing a San Diego home-search range, organize your credit questions with a mortgage lender. Credit reports, credit scores and a lender’s approval decision are related, but they are not the same thing.
1. Review your reports through the official route
The CFPB directs consumers to AnnualCreditReport.com for free credit reports. Review account details and information you do not recognize. Use the reporting company’s dispute instructions if something appears incorrect.
2. Separate reports from scores
A report records credit information; a score is calculated from information using a scoring model. You can have different scores. Ask the lender which information it will use rather than assuming an app’s displayed score is your mortgage score.
3. Bring specific questions to the lender
- What documents should I prepare, and when will you review my credit?
- How do my credit information, income, debts and available funds affect the options you can offer?
- Should we discuss any planned account changes, new borrowing or large purchases before I act?
- What needs to be resolved before we set a home-search range?
4. Keep the home search connected to the financing review
A higher score does not guarantee approval, a particular rate or a specific purchase price. Ask the lender to explain the actual options and conditions. Kristen can help translate your lender-informed range and priorities into a property search, while financing decisions remain with the lender.
Where should I start if I need more help?
The CFPB’s homebuying preparation guide includes resources for reviewing credit and finding housing counseling. Use those resources to plan questions; avoid treating promised quick score improvements as a homebuying plan.
Continue with our San Diego first-time buyer guide for the broader purchase process.
Turn preparation into a focused home search
Discuss the property, your priorities and the next steps with broker-owner Kristen Kalepp.
Discuss your buying plans