Get Pre-Approved (Not to be confused with getting "pre-qualified".)

Pre-qualified is simply based on the verbal information given to the lender. Pre-approval is based on the lender doing a thorough search into your credit report and your household income. The lender will then notify you of your maximum amount of mortgage they will offer you. With pre-approval you can look for a home with confidence knowing your buying power.

Compare lenders' rates and charges. More than simply comparing interest rates, also ask about discount and/or origination points, application fees, appraisal fees and any other closing and service fees charged by the lender.