What Mortgage Rate Can I Actually Get?

Two buyers can shop the same week and still get different mortgage rates. That’s because your rate is personal — based on your credit, your down payment, your income documentation, and the loan type you choose.

One of the biggest mistakes I see is buyers focusing only on the rate headline they saw online. What matters is your rate, your closing costs, and the full monthly payment.

Here are real ways to improve your pricing:

• Credit clean-up: even small improvements can open better options
• Debt-to-income: paying down a card can help more than you think
• Full pre-approval: not just pre-qualification
• Loan type strategy: conventional vs FHA vs VA can change both rate and mortgage insurance
• Compare lenders: not to rate-chase, but to compare fees and structure
• Ask about points: sometimes worth it, sometimes not — we do the break-even math

Also, don’t overlook the importance of lender reliability. A great lender isn’t just about rate — it’s about closing on time. In competitive situations, sellers choose buyers they trust will make it to the finish line.

If you want, I can connect you with trusted lenders and help you compare quotes like a pro.