How to Shop for a Mortgage Without Hurting Your Credit Score

When shopping for a mortgage, limit rate comparisons to a 14-day window to minimize credit score impact, as multiple hard inquiries within this period count as one. Prequalification involves a soft credit pull and doesn't affect your score, while preapproval triggers a hard pull that can lower it. Check credit reports for errors before applying, avoid new credit during underwriting, and maintain timely payments, as payment history heavily influences mortgage approval.