Check your credit reports for errors and dispute any inaccuracies
Pay down existing debts to improve your debt-to-income ratio
Save for a larger down payment
Build a steady income and employment history
Avoid new debt before applying for a mortgage
Consider government-backed loans such as FHA, VA, or USDA loans
Look into lenders that specialize in bad-credit or nontraditional borrowers
Get preapproved to understand what you can afford
Ask a mortgage broker to compare multiple loan options
Use a co-signer if allowed and appropriate
Offer a larger down payment to reduce lender risk
Show proof of rent payments, utilities, and other on-time bills
Consider a smaller or less expensive home
Explore seller financing or lease-to-own options
Work on improving your credit score before applying if time allows