The CFPB is on your side
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a U.S. government agency created in 2011. We write and enforce rules to protect consumers, and we provide free tools and resources to help you make financial decisions. Choosing the right home loan is just as important as choosing the right home. Use our tools and resources to know what to expect—and what questions to ask—every step of the way.
Before you make an offer on a home
1. Prepare to shop
Not sure how to get started, how much you can afford, or what to expect when buying and financing a home? Set yourself up for success with a little bit of preparation.
Key tools
2. Explore loan choices
Once you have a pretty good idea of your priorities and budget, you're ready to start home shopping in earnest. Now is also the time to start exploring loan choices and meeting with lenders.
Key tools
After you make an offer on a home
3. Compare loan offers
Once you’ve found the right home, it’s time to find the right mortgage. Get official loan offers from lenders, compare your options, and choose the loan offer that's right for you.
Key tools
4. Get ready to close
Once you've chosen a mortgage loan, it’s time to focus on the closing process. There will be lots of paperwork to submit and things to keep track of. We lay it out for you step by step.