Once you have your credit ready for a lender's scrutiny -- and before you even start home shopping -- get pre-approved for a mortgage loan.

There are many advantages to buying a home versus renting one. View a financial comparison of buying versus renting here.

Not sure what you can afford? Find out by using this calculator to estimate your income to debt ratios for FHA, VA and Conventional loans.

Have you found the house/neighborhood you want? Do you already know how much you want to spend? Click here for a calculator to estimate the monthly costs, including payments, down payment, and closing costs for FHA, VA and Conventional loan programs.

Click to view HUD's Settlement Cost Booklet - Very useful information about closing costs, loan fees, etc.

Is your credit in good shape? Would you know if it were not? When it comes time to apply for a mortgage loan, you'll want your credit to be as clean as possible to get as much mortgage as you need at the lowest possible rate.

Struggling with less than perfect credit? Learn how you can secure a mortgage loan.

Here are a few lenders I have worked with who have been a great asset to the transaction. They know their job, know how to explain the process well, and know how to get your loan to closing without delays or hassles. Although you are always free to shop around for a mortgage and be sure you are satisifed with the rate and terms, here are a few good places to start.

What’s better: pre-qualified or pre-approved? Payment-cutting loan programs? How to select right down payment? What you must know about your credit? Discover inside tips about financing.