Lenders care more about DTI than credit score. Calculate it before applying: (Total monthly debt payments / Gross monthly income) x 100. If your DTI is above 40%, you may struggle to get approved. Consider paying down small debts first.

No. The initial matching uses a soft inquiry, which is invisible to lenders and does not affect your score. Only when you click "Accept Offer" and apply directly with the lender does a hard inquiry occur.

A popular use case. Borrowers use PreferredRateCom to find a loan that pays off high-interest credit cards. This simplifies monthly payments and can save hundreds in interest if you secure a lower APR.

Initial offers may show ranges like "5.99% to 35.99% APR." The actual rate you qualify for depends on the hard credit pull. Always read the loan agreement’s Terms Sheet before signing.