How do I make sure I qualify for a mortgage?

To make sure you qualify for a mortgage , you’ll want to present yourself as a desirable borrower. You should take steps to improve your finances, such as paying off debt and improving your credit.

What are mortgage lenders not allowed to ask?

When considering you for a mortgage, lenders must follow all local and federal laws. This includes anti-discrimination laws that protect you from discrimination against your race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. In addition, a mortgage lender can’t consider factors such as: Whether you have a disability Whether you have or plan to have kids Information about a non-co-borrower spouse The racial composition of your neighborhood

What disqualifies you from getting a mortgage?

What disqualifies you from getting a mortgage will depend on the type of mortgage you apply for. For example, to qualify for a USDA loan, your income can’t exceed 115% of the median household income in the area where your desired home is located. Working with a loan officer can help you navigate this process and choose the best home loan for you.

How much income do you need to qualify for a mortgage?

How much you’ll need to make to qualify for a mortgage depends on the home you are buying, the mortgage program that you’re applying for, and the requirements set by your specific lender. Your income should be sufficient to not only cover your home loan, but also continue to pay any outstanding debt and cover your basic expenses.

Which home loan makes the most sense for me?

The best home loan for your will depend on many factors, including: Your income Your debt-to-income ratio Your available down payment The cost of the home you wish to buy Whether you’re a veteran

2025 Mortgage Requirements: What You Need to Know to Qualify

How to Qualify for a Mortgage in 2025

Mortgage requirements vary by home loan type and lender. To choose the best one for you, you’ll need to know these qualifications.

By Micah Murray

Written by

Micah Murray

Freelance writer

Micah Murray has over six years of experience in personal finance. His work has been published by Newsweek Vault, New York Post, and Bankrate.

Edited by Reina Marszalek

Written by

Reina Marszalek

Senior editor

Reina Marszalek has over 10 years of experience in personal finance and is a senior mortgage editor at Credible.

Updated December 14, 2024

Editorial disclosure: Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we receive compensation from our partner lenders, whom we will always identify, all opinions are our own. Credible Operations, Inc. NMLS # 1681276, is referred to here as “Credible.”

Getting a mortgage is not a universal experience. How much you pay, the interest rate you get, and how long the process takes depends entirely on the mortgage you choose. The same goes for specific mortgage requirements — each lender and mortgage program will have different standards for eligibility.

Certain mortgages require a high credit score or down payment, while others require no down payment at all. Here are the typical requirements for the most common home loan types.

What are the 2025 mortgage requirements?

To get a home loan in 2025, you’ll need to navigate the different mortgage requirements set by lenders. Since each mortgage program and lender has its own set of requirements, you’ll need to find one that makes the most sense for your financial needs.

Here are requirements for some of the most popular