SM: There are so many different types of mortgages out there; it can make your head spin. What type of mortgage should a first-time buyer look for?
Hiner: If you know that this is a “starter house” that you’re only planning on living in for three to five years, at which time you’ll sell and buy a bigger home, then a five-year fixed mortgage (meaning, the interest rate is locked-in for five years) is a good plan for you. If you’re planning on staying in the house for a long time and having to refinance a loan every few years makes you nervous, go for a 30-year fixed mortgage (meaning, you lock in the interest rate for all 30 years that you have to pay back the loan).

SM:  A lot of people in their twenties and early thirties are paying off substantial student loans. Does this affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage?
Hiner: A lender will NEVER say, “You already owe so much money on your student loans that we’re not going to lend to you.” But they will look at whether you’ve been making your payments on time. If you have made all your payments on time, it will improve your credit score.

SM: How does a credit score affect your ability to buy a house?
Hiner: Your credit score is super important. A lot of people don’t realize that it not only affects the interest rate you can get on your mortgage, but it also affects what you’re going to be able to do. Some lenders might say, “Your credit is not good enough to do 100% financing,” or “You just don’t qualify for a loan.” But if you have a really good credit score, a lender will make exceptions for you. To up your credit score, make purchases on your card and pay it off in full every month. Don’t keep a big running balance on your credit cards that you just pay the minimum on.