Mortgage rates can change daily, sometimes even multiple times per day depending on economic factors. For an accurate mortgage comparison, get all rate quotes on the same day. But if you don't feel really confident it would be better to leave this for real estate agents or just to use a mortgage rate calculator, which is not so sharp-minded and reliable, but can dive a hand sometimes. Here are some tips for people who at least have some understanding of the topic.

For most loans, the lender's mortgage 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 loan rate for a specific time. Longer lock periods usually have higher mortgage rates. Compare mortgage rates for similar rate lock periods.

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

Have lenders quote the mortgage 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 comparing mortgage rates, but to get a firm mortgage loan rate, lenders need to run a credit report, however, the rate is subject to change until locked. Lenders normally use the middle of 3 credit scores of the person who is the primary wage earner.