Why this matters

Lenders use hard inquiries to see current credit activity when underwriting a mortgage. Even a small score drop can move you across a rate tier or change pricing on mortgage insurance, especially if you’re near the boundary between credit-score bands.

How scoring models handle rate shopping

  • Scoring models allow a shopping window so multiple inquiries for the same loan type are usually treated as one. The window commonly falls between 14 and 45 days depending on the model and version (FICO, VantageScore, and their updates differ). See FICO and VantageScore guidance for specifics (FICO: https://www.fico.com/, VantageScore: https://vantagescore.com/).
  • Hard inquiries normally affect your score for about 12 months and remain on your credit report for 2 years, though the impact lessens over time (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Experian).

Typical score impact (varies by profile)

  • Excellent credit (740+): 0–5 points per inquiry
  • Good credit (700–739): 3–10 points
  • Lower scores or thin files: larger, less predictable swings

These are estimates — your actual change depends on the scoring model, existing credit mix, and recent activity (Experian: https://www.experian.com/).

Practical strategies I use in practice

  1. Concentrate applications into a short period. Group mortgage applications so they fall inside the scoring model’s shopping window to minimize cumulative impact.
  2. Use soft-pull prequalification first. Many lenders offer a soft credit check to show estimated rates without a hard inquiry. This helps narrow choices before the hard pull.
  3. Know the difference between prequalification and preapproval. Preapproval usually requires a hard pull; prequalification often doesn’t.
  4. Ask lenders when they will do the hard pull. Some delay the hard inquiry until you agree to proceed or submit a full application.
  5. Avoid other big credit moves. Don’t open new cards or close accounts between preapproval and closing; changes can affect debt-to-income and credit score.
  6. Monitor your credit reports and scores. If something unexpected appears, dispute errors quickly with the credit bureaus.

Real-world example

A client of mine applied to four lenders across three weeks. Because we planned to submit all four within a single shopping window, the scoring models grouped the inquiries and her score dropped only a few points — far less than if the inquiries had been spread across several months. That small difference preserved access to a lower interest-rate tier.

When hard inquiries matter most

  • When you have a thin credit history. Each inquiry can carry more weight.
  • When you are near a rate-tier cutoff. Small score changes can trigger higher pricing.
  • When you apply for multiple, different credit types concurrently (mortgages plus new credit cards will count separately).

Short FAQ

  • Do hard inquiries show immediately? Yes — they appear on your credit report as soon as a lender requests your file.
  • How long do they hurt my score? Most impact is within the first 12 months; inquiries remain visible for 2 years.
  • Can shopping multiple lenders damage my chances? Not if you group pulls inside the rate-shopping window and use soft prequalifications to narrow choices.

Helpful resources

Related reading on FinHelp

Professional disclaimer

This article is educational and reflects my experience working with mortgage applicants. It is not personalized financial or legal advice. For guidance tailored to your situation, consult a qualified mortgage professional or credit counselor.