Credit scores

Which score counts

Lenders usually pull scores from the three bureaus and use the middle one. With two borrowers, the lower of the two middle scores typically decides pricing.

Before you apply

• Pay card balances below 30% of each limit, ideally under 10%, before the statement date
• Don't open new accounts or finance a car during the process
• Check your reports for errors at annualcreditreport.com
• Keep old accounts open; age of credit helps

Rate shopping

Multiple mortgage inquiries within a short window count as one for scoring purposes, so comparing lenders doesn't damage your score.

Reviewed by Mustafa Temiz, CPA, NMLS #2450795 · Updated November 2026