Know Your Credit Score

• One of the biggest mistakes that you can make when meeting with a lender is to not know your credit score. This can lead to a nasty surprise when the bank brings up your credit history. Visit the three credit bureau websites to get a credit report. Check this well before your meeting with the lender; there may be inaccurate information in your reports that is lowering your credit score. Get any false information taken care of before visiting a lender and you'll have a better credit score when you are trying to get a mortgage.

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Shop Around for the Best Rate

• Knowing your credit score allows you to shop around for the best possible mortgage rates. Many lenders have online tools that allow you to get a free estimate for a mortgage rate and see what the best offers are. Make appointments with the four or five lenders with the best rates, and then narrow down from there. Visit each lender and compare the terms of the mortgage offers you get.​

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Show Up Prepared

• There is a long list of what you need to bring to your first meeting with a potential lender. This list usually includes IRAS Tax, CPF statements, the last four paycheck prove of anyone who will be listed on the mortgage and a list of your monthly expenses. If you are self-employed, you will also need to show your company's profits and loss statements and your previous tax returns. Each lender has a different set of requirements; call ahead and request a list if one is not mailed to you. Showing up with everything you need to get a mortgage improves your chances.

  Be prepared for the mortgage process. Know the difference between fixed and variable rates, and which one is better for you. Read a book about mortgages or buying a home. Knowing more puts you in a better position to get a mortgage.

Have a Substantial Down Payment

• A down payment of at least the minimum  is essential to getting a mortgage. Saving up the traditional 20 percent is a better option, gets you a better interest rate and makes a lender more likely to approve you for a mortgage. It may take a while to save up that money, but it can lower your monthly payments substantially and get you into a home much faster.