Are You Mortgage-Ready? - Credit Readiness Quiz
Lenders see your credit differently than you do. Here's what they're actually looking at.
This tool provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual rates and results depend on your specific situation. Rates last updated 2026-04-06. Rates are subject to change at any time.
Understanding Your Credit Before You Apply
Your credit report tells lenders a story about how you manage money. Understanding what’s in that story - and what you can improve - puts you in control.
What Lenders Care About Most
Payment history (35% of your score) is the single biggest factor. After that, utilization - how much of your available credit you’re using - accounts for 30%. These two factors alone make up nearly two-thirds of your score.
Quick Wins
The fastest way to improve your score is to pay down credit card balances below 30% of their limits. This can boost your score within one or two billing cycles. Avoid opening new accounts before applying, and never close old accounts - the length of credit history helps your score.
When to Apply
If your quiz shows “Needs Work,” waiting 3-6 months while making improvements could save you tens of thousands over the life of your mortgage. I can help you build a timeline during our call.