📈 What Credit Score Do You Need for a Conventional Mortgage?
🏗️ What Is a Construction Loan and How Does It Work?
Simple steps to boost your buying power and lock in better terms.
Getting approved for a conventional mortgage isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about putting yourself in the strongest possible position so you can:
✅ Qualify faster
✅ Get better rates
✅ Lower your monthly payment
✅ Compete confidently in a competitive market
Whether you’re just starting out or already pre-approved, here are five smart moves to strengthen your conventional loan approval.
✅ 1. Boost Your Credit Score (Even Slightly)
Your credit score plays a big role in:
- Loan approval
- Interest rate
- Mortgage insurance costs
Even a small improvement (say, from 679 to 700) could save you thousands over the life of your loan.
Tips:
- Pay down credit cards below 30% of the limit
- Don’t open or close any accounts before applying
- Dispute any credit report errors
- Make all payments on time (even utilities)
📘 We can simulate how different changes may impact your score before you apply.
✅ 2. Lower Your Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)
Your DTI measures how much of your income goes toward monthly debt — including:
- Credit cards
- Student loans
- Auto loans
- Any other installment payments
The lower your DTI, the more comfortable your approval — and the more you can afford.
Tips:
- Pay off small credit balances
- Hold off on large purchases or financing new cars
- Avoid co-signing for others before applying
💡 We’ll help calculate your DTI and suggest where to trim.
✅ 3. Increase Your Down Payment (If Possible)
While you can buy with as little as 3% down, putting more down can:
- Eliminate or reduce PMI
- Lower your interest rate
- Strengthen your application with underwriters
- Improve your chance in a competitive offer situation
Don’t have extra savings? Ask us about gift funds, grants, and down payment assistance programs.
✅ 4. Organize Your Documents Early
Speed matters — especially in a hot housing market.
Getting prepped with your documents up front can:
- Speed up pre-approval
- Make your offer stronger
- Avoid surprises mid-transaction
Have ready:
- Last 2 years of W-2s or tax returns
- Last 30 days of pay stubs
- 2 months of bank statements
- ID, insurance, and any current mortgage info
We’ll give you a full checklist — and help streamline everything through secure upload tools.
✅ 5. Get Pre-Approved With a Direct Lender
Sellers take pre-approvals more seriously when they come from reputable direct lenders who:
- Underwrite in-house
- Move quickly
- Have a reputation for closing on time
At PRMI, your pre-approval isn’t just a generic letter — it’s a real approval strategy that tells sellers you’re ready, qualified, and backed by a serious team.
🏢 Why PRMI?
We’re not just here to approve a loan — we’re here to help you:
- Improve your profile
- Understand your options
- Close quickly, clearly, and confidently
Whether you’re buying your first home or your fourth, we help you compete like a pro.
👇 Want to Strengthen Your Approval Now?
Let’s take a quick look at your credit, income, and goals — and show you where small changes can make a big impact.