What factors should you consider when shopping for a mortgage?

Make sure you can actually afford the payments. Take a traditional 30 year loan,this way your interest rate stays the same. Rates are great right now. Also make sure you can put down 20% or you will be stuck paying PMI (property mortgage insurance) for at least the next 7 years or until you reach 20%. I would also try to get a loan from a bank name you are familiar with. When you find a good rate,make sure to lock in the rate.