There is a simple formula to embrace when buying a home: The higher the credit score, the lower the interest rate. As with any other financial endeavor, your credit score will play a key part in helping you secure your loan. This is why you should invest the time and energy towards boosting that credit score before you go in search of a mortgage. Here is how you can achieve that goal:
Ask for a Credit Line Increase
It might seem odd to ask for more credit when you’re seeking a mortgage. However, your debt-to-income ratio can impact your credit score. In other words, credit agencies don’t necessarily want you to carry a lot of debt, they just want you to have the potential to do that. If you have a good payment history, then you could get those numbers up.
Put Off Applying for New Credit
Asking for a credit line increase is not the same as applying for new credit. Whenever you apply, you will go through a “hard inquiry.” That can make a ding in your credit score.
Show History of Paying on Time
If you pay on time, even if it is just the minimum, then you’ll still be helping your credit score. It might help to set up reminders on your phone or make automatic payments.
Check All Three Scores
The big three credit reporting companies are Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Each of those agencies might give you a different score. They can also make plenty of mistakes. That’s why you’ll want to get those reports and review them carefully to make any corrections.
Wait for the Boost
If you start all these improvement measures today, then it might take a few months for them to generate better numbers. Credit reports like consistent data. Changing things for just a month won’t be enough for them. While you’re waiting for the scores to go up, you can keep saving for your down payment and research the best lending companies. Going into the home buying process armed with a strong credit score will pay off.
