Why You MUST Shop for a Mortgage
🚨 The Costly Mistake Most Buyers Make
47% of buyers only get ONE quote before choosing a lender. They leave thousands on the table because rates and fees vary significantly between lenders—even on the same day, for the same borrower.
📊 What Shopping Saves You
| Quotes Obtained | Avg. Savings |
|---|---|
| 1 quote | $0 (baseline) |
| 2 quotes | $1,500 |
| 3 quotes | $2,000 |
| 5+ quotes | $3,000+ |
Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau study
📋 Step-by-Step: How to Shop for a Mortgage
Check Your Credit First
Before applying anywhere, check your credit score and reports. Fix any errors. Know where you stand so you can evaluate if the rates you're offered are fair.
Free credit reports: AnnualCreditReport.com
Free scores: Credit Karma, your bank's app
Gather Your Documents
Have these ready before you start applying. It speeds up the process and ensures you get accurate quotes.
- ✓ Last 2 years tax returns
- ✓ Last 2 years W-2s
- ✓ Last 30 days pay stubs
- ✓ Last 2 months bank statements
- ✓ ID (driver's license)
- ✓ Social Security number
Apply to 3-5 Lenders Within 14 Days
Apply to multiple lenders within a 14-day window. All inquiries count as ONE for credit scoring purposes.
Types of lenders to try:
• Big banks (Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America)
• Online lenders (Rocket, Better, LoanDepot)
• Credit unions (often best rates)
• Mortgage brokers (shop multiple lenders for you)
Get Loan Estimates from Each
By law, lenders must give you a Loan Estimate within 3 business days of applying. This standardized form makes comparison easy.
What to compare on the Loan Estimate:
• Interest rate (Page 1)
• APR (includes fees - Page 3)
• Total closing costs (Page 2)
• Lender credits or points (Page 2)
Negotiate!
Use your best quote to negotiate with other lenders. Many will match or beat competitors to win your business.
What to say: "I have a quote from [Lender X] at [rate] with [closing costs]. Can you match or beat that?"
Choose and Lock Your Rate
Once you have an accepted offer on a home, choose your lender and lock your rate. Don't wait too long—rates can change daily.
🏠 Start Comparing Lenders Now
Get quotes from multiple lenders in minutes. See who offers the best rate for your situation.
Compare Rates from 300+ Lenders →What to Compare (Checklist)
Interest Rate
The base rate you'll pay
APR (Annual Percentage Rate)
Rate + fees combined - TRUE cost
Closing Costs
Total fees due at closing
Lender Fees (Origination)
What the lender charges
Points
Upfront cost to lower rate
Lender Credits
Money lender gives you
Rate Lock Period
How long rate is guaranteed
🔍 The Credit Score Myth (Debunked)
✅ Shopping Does NOT Hurt Your Credit
Many people avoid shopping because they think multiple applications will tank their credit. This is a myth.
- • All mortgage inquiries within 14-45 days count as ONE inquiry
- • One inquiry typically affects your score by only 5-10 points
- • The impact disappears within 12 months
- • The savings from shopping far outweigh any temporary score dip
Bottom line: Shop aggressively within a 2-week window. Your credit will be fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mortgage lenders should I compare?
At least 3-5. Studies show borrowers who get 5+ quotes save an average of $3,000 compared to those who only get one. More quotes = more leverage to negotiate.
Does shopping for a mortgage hurt my credit?
No, if you shop within 14-45 days. All mortgage inquiries in this window count as ONE inquiry, typically affecting your score by only 5-10 points.
When should I start shopping?
Start 2-3 months before making an offer. Get pre-approved first, then shop rates seriously once you have an accepted offer. Pre-approval letters are valid 60-90 days.
Should I use a mortgage broker?
Brokers can be helpful—they shop multiple lenders for you. But also get direct quotes from banks and credit unions to compare. Sometimes direct is cheaper, sometimes brokers find better deals.
🏠 Ready to Start Shopping?
Compare rates from multiple lenders in minutes. See who offers the best deal for your situation.
Compare Lenders Now →Related Guides
David Rodriguez
Senior Mortgage Rate Analyst • 10+ Years Experience
David helps buyers navigate the mortgage shopping process and find the best rates available.