Mortgage rates can change daily, sometimes even multiple times per day depending on economic factors. For the most accurate rate comparisons, get all quotes on the same day.

For most loans, the lender's rate sheets have pricing based on a lock period, which are offered in increments like, 15, 30, or 60 days. 

A lock guarantees the mortgage rate for a specific time. Longer lock periods usually have higher rates. Compare mortgage quotes for similar lock periods.

Increasing the mortgage rate will decrease the points, while reducing the rate will increases the points. Mortgage quotes have tiered pricing that allows you to buy the rate, or the points up or down. Compare quotes with the same number of points, such as, zero points, or one point.     

Have lenders quote the loan points separate from other fees. In addition to title insurance, escrow, or appraisal, lenders have other fees like, processing, document, or underwriting, which may be negotiable. Property taxes, home insurance, and pre-paid interest are not lender fees. 

Approximate credit scores can be used for general mortgage quotes. For a firm mortgage rate, the lender will need to run your credit report, but the rate is subject to change until locked. Lenders normally use the middle of 3 credit scores from the borrower who is the primary wage earner.