Whether you're buying a home or refinancing an existing home loan, you'll soon find out that lenders today are a picky and demanding bunch when it comes to loan approvals. Even well-qualified borrowers are expected to jump through some pretty high hoops to qualify for financing. But fear not: These tips and suggestions can help you make the best possible impression on the lender of your choice.Just as job-hunters may wonder what top employers want to see on a resume, prospective borrowers may be curious about what lenders look for on a loan application.

The answer may be summed up with a mnemonic called "The four Cs," according to Greg Gwizdz, national sales manager for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage in Des Moines, Iowa. The four C's
• Capacity, which refers to the adequacy of the borrower's income to pay the interest and principal due on the loan, plus property taxes and homeowners insurance.
• Character, which refers to the borrower's track record of paying debts as evidenced by his or her credit history and credit score.
• Capital, which refers to the borrower's down payment (or equity) as a percentage of the current value of the home.
• Collateral, which refers to the safety and soundness of the home and the value of the home as determined by an appraisal relative to the agreed-upon purchase price.