Chapter 2: Credit & Pre-Approval

Buying a home might start as a dream, but to make it real, you’ve got to start with the basics, and that begins with your credit. Your score tells a story about how you’ve handled your money, and that story can change. Maybe life got messy for a while, or maybe you just never had credit before. Either way, you’re not behind. You’re just starting where you are, and that’s a great place to begin.

Start by getting a clear picture of what’s on your reports. You can pull them for free once a year from AnnualCreditReport.com. Look at all three—TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian—and read every line. If something doesn’t look right, don’t ignore it. Dispute errors, update old information, and if it feels confusing, ask for help. You don’t need to face it alone.

The good news is, improving credit is absolutely possible. Some people need a few months, others need longer, but every bit of effort matters. You don’t need to pay big money to a “credit repair” company either. Many trusted lenders offer free in-house credit guidance. They’ll show you exactly where to focus, like paying down small collections or setting up a secured card. A good lender will walk beside you until you’re ready to buy, even if that takes time.

When your credit starts looking stronger, it’s time to gather a few documents. You’ll need your ID, recent pay stubs, W-2s or 1099s, bank statements, and any proof of other income like retirement or rental earnings. A lender uses these to pre-approve you, which simply means you’ll know your budget before you start shopping. That pre-approval letter tells sellers and agents you’re ready, and it helps you stay focused on homes within reach.

And remember, you can talk to more than one lender. Different lenders offer different programs, so compare rates, ask questions, and find someone who makes you feel informed and supported.

Buying a home is a process. Credit repair, paperwork, pre-approval—these steps are all part of building momentum. Each one gets you closer to the front door of your new home. Don’t rush it. Stay steady, stay motivated, and celebrate progress as it comes.

You’ve got this. And when you’re ready to take the next step, I’ll be right here to walk it with you.

Summary + Takeaways

• Pull all three credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com and check for errors.

• Ask a lender about free in-house credit guidance before paying for “repair” services.

• Gather your key documents early to make pre-approval easier.

• Compare lenders to find the best fit for your situation.

• Stay patient and consistent—progress always pays off.