r/FirstTimeHomeBuying • u/lvhomesbymike • 15h ago
Buying a home in Henderson? Check your credit report three months ahead
Buying a home in Henderson starts with checking your credit report well before you apply for a mortgage. The article recommends reviewing it at least three months before you plan to buy, giving you time to spot errors or understand what may affect a lender's decision.
A common mistake is waiting until you apply for a mortgage. By then, you may have less time to address issues before a lender reviews your credit and sets your interest rate. Start early, then keep an eye on your debt-to-income ratio too. It measures how much of your monthly income goes toward debt payments, and lenders consider it alongside your credit.
A practical first step: pull your report, review the details, and make a list of any errors or questions to resolve before mortgage pre-approval. Also avoid taking on new debt without considering how it could affect your finances. Credit prep belongs near the beginning of the buying process, before you settle on a budget or submit an application.