Here are a few things you’ll need to do to get started:

• Gather your financial information (paystubs, W-2s, etc.).
• Check your credit. Your mortgage interest rates improve with higher credit scores. Get a free report at annualcreditreport.com.
• Find out how much you still owe on your current mortgage.
• Get a realistic estimate of the market value of your home. Check out zillow.com, trulia.com , or ask a real estate agent to provide a market valuation of your home.