Applying for a mortgage is a very important financial decision and you should not mortgage your home before learning more about your options. It could end badly if you don’t have the right information. If you are not sure of how the loan process works, you should probably keep reading.

When attempting to estimate monthly mortgage costs, try getting a pre-approval for the mortgage. It only takes a little shopping around to determine how much you’re personally eligible for in terms of price range. Your lender can help you calculate estimated monthly payments.

Only borrow the money you need. The mortgage lender is going to let you know how much you can qualify to get, but you shouldn’t think that’s a number based on how you’re living. Consider your lifestyle, your spending, your income and just how much you realistically are able to afford and still live in relative comfort.

New laws might make it possible for you to refinance your home, even if it is not worth what you owe. Many homeowners had tried to refinance unsuccessfully until they introduced this program. Look at this option if you’re in a bad situation, as it might help you to improve your financial picture.

As you go through the mortgage application process, keep paying down debt, and don’t take any new bills on. When debt is low, the mortgage offers will be greater. Higher consumer debt may cause your application to get denied. If you carry too much debt, the higher mortgage rate can cost a lot.

Before you start looking for home mortgages, check your credit report to make sure that there are no errors or mistakes. 2013 ushered in much tougher credit standards for home loans, so it is essential to have the highest credit score possible to get to the best rates and terms.

In order to be eligible to a home mortgage, you need to show a stable work history over the long term. Most lenders require a solid two year work history in order to be approved. If you participate in job hopping, you can find yourself denied for a loan again and again. Quitting your job during the loan approval process is not a good idea.

A down payment is usually required when you are applying for a home mortgage. Some lenders used to approve loans without a payment up front, but that is extremely rare today. You should find out exactly how much you’ll need.

Prior to applying for a home mortgage, get all your documents ready. All lenders will require certain documents. W2 forms, bank statements and the last two years income tax returns will all be required. The mortgage process will run more quickly and more smoothly when your documents are all in order.

Now that you have more information about mortgages, put yourself out there. Just be sure to remember what you learned. Now find a lending company and put the advice to use.