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The borrowers who move through the loan process fastest aren't always the ones with the best credit or the most money — they're the ones who show up prepared. Here's exactly what to do before you apply.

1. Know your real credit score

Check your FICO score — not Credit Karma, not your bank's credit score estimate. Those scores use different models and often read significantly higher than what a lender will see. Your FICO score is what matters for your application.

📊 Minimum FICO score to apply: 550. If you're below 550, focus on improving your credit before applying — we're happy to talk through what that path looks like.

You can get your official FICO score at myfico.com. It's worth the few dollars to know exactly where you stand before you apply.

2. Understand your debt-to-income ratio

Add up all your monthly debt payments — car loans, student loans, credit card minimums, personal loans. Then add the estimated mortgage payment for the home you're interested in — use the calculator on our homepage to get that number.

If you're planning to live in a community or park, also add your expected monthly lot rent and homeowner's insurance. Divide that total by your gross monthly income (before taxes) to get your DTI.

⚠️ General DTI limits: 50% max for credit scores 600+, 48% max for scores under 600. If you're close to these thresholds, consider paying down debt before applying.

3. Gather your documents

Having these ready before you start will cut your application time significantly:

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If you're employed
Most recent 2 or 4 pay stubs — 2 if paid biweekly, 4 if paid weekly
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If you're self-employed
Most recent 2 years of tax returns
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If you receive benefits (e.g. Social Security)
Most recent benefit verification statement
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Government-issued photo ID
Driver's license or state-issued ID
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Credit or debit card
For the soft credit report — ordered separately after you submit your application

4. Know your down payment

Depending on your loan program and credit profile, you'll need between 5%–20% down. Those funds can come from savings in your bank account, a 401k withdrawal, a gift, or cash on hand. Regardless of the source, underwriters will ask for documentation verifying your down payment.

5. What NOT to do before applying

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Don't open new credit cards or take out new loans
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Don't make large cash deposits you can't document
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Don't change jobs — lenders want to see stable employment
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Don't pay off collections without talking to your loan officer first — it can sometimes lower your score temporarily
✓ Not sure if you're ready? Call us. We'll go through your situation and tell you honestly whether now is the right time to apply — or what would make it stronger.

Feel ready? Let's get started.

Apply online in about 30–40 minutes. Soft credit pull only — no impact on your score.

Start Your Application →