Buyers with Credit Freezes: What You Need to Know Before Applying for a Mortgage

Freezing your credit is a smart move to protect against identity theft—but when it comes time to buy a home, that freeze can slow you down if you're not prepared. If you're planning to apply for a mortgage, here are the key steps to take before house hunting begins:

1️⃣ Unfreeze Your Credit Early

Before applying for a mortgage, contact all three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to temporarily lift your credit freeze.
Each bureau has its own process, but generally:

• The unfreezing process can take up to 3 days, so don’t wait until the last minute.

• You can usually choose between lifting the freeze temporarily or removing it entirely.

Check with each bureau directly to understand their specific requirements and timelines.

2️⃣ Know Your Freeze Settings

It’s important to be aware of how your freeze is set up. Some freezes are time-limited, while others require manual removal. Make sure you lift the freeze for the appropriate amount of time—long enough to get through pre-approval and any necessary credit checks.

3️⃣ Get Pre-Approved Before You Start House Hunting

Your lender needs access to your credit report to determine how much you qualify for. If your credit is still frozen, your application could be delayed or even denied.
To keep things moving smoothly, unfreeze your credit before applying for pre-approval.

4️⃣ Review Your Credit Report

While you're unfreezing your credit, take a moment to review your report for any errors, outdated information, or suspicious activity. Catching and resolving issues early can increase your chances of mortgage approval and help you secure better loan terms.

5️⃣ Save Your Confirmation Details

Once your freeze is lifted, save any confirmation numbers or reference codes provided by the credit bureaus. This documentation may be needed by your lender or helpful if any issues arise during the mortgage process.

💡 Pro Tip:

If you're actively shopping for your dream home, unfreeze your credit in advance so you’re ready to move quickly when the right property comes along. Delays in unfreezing can slow down your mortgage approval—and you don’t want to lose out in a competitive market.

Buying a home is a big step—make sure your credit is ready to go when you are! Have questions about getting pre-approved or what lenders are looking for? Reach out today—I'd be happy to guide you through the process. 🏡✨