Few things in life are judged as quickly or as harshly as your credit score. Lenders love it. Algorithms obsess over it. And if you're applying for a mortgage, it's basically your financial report card. But before you panic-Google “how to raise credit score overnight,” let’s talk about what really matters—and what doesn’t.

Mortgages are fun said no one ever. Between confusing terms, inconsistent advice, and enough paperwork to choke a printer, most people would rather schedule a root canal than shop for a home loan. That’s where mortgage brokers come in.