5 Tips for Improving and Maintaining Your Credit.

A credit score tells your financial story! Credit reports are closely analyzed and is the major determining factor when it comes to buying a home. Your credit report plays a significant role in the type of mortgage you can secure and at what rate you can secure it. Credit must be managed properly. Here are a few tips to help you improve and mange your credit.  

Tip 1. Before Applying, Start Verifying!

Get a copy of your credit report! Know your current  score and overall credit information. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the major credit reporting companies (Equifax, Experian, and Transunion) to provide you with a free copy of your credit report once each year. You can order a copy of your free report by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com

Tip 2. Review and report.

Once you’ve obtained your credit report, review the information to make sure it’s accurate. Inaccuracies can cost you your new home!  If you do notice errors, it is your responsibility to fix them immediately. The Federal Trade Commission provides step-by-step guidance on how to correct credit inaccuracies. Click here to find out more.

Tip 3. You owe it! Pay it!

Once your review of your credit report is completed and you have verified that all the information and debts reporting are correct, the next step is to correct any situation that may be lowering your score. It goes without saying, bills must be paid on time! This is a major part of maintaining a good credit history and rating. Try setting up auto drafts or payment reminders so you never miss a due date. It is also important to utilize credit wisely, do not over extend. We recommend that you put aside money in an account dedicated solely to paying your bills so you don’t run into money management trouble.

Tip 4. Pay More! Helps More!

Pay more than the minimum balances due on revolving tradelines each month. Maintaining a good balance to limit ratio on revolving debt is beneficial.  Just because you have credit does not mean you have to max out credit. A good financial standing is what lenders looks for.

Tip 5. Time is your friend!

It takes time to build a sound credit history. If you are thinking about buying a home, start making a serious plan to increase your credit score and credit rating. A poor score can sometimes take years to remedy. Give yourself enough time to get to where you need to be to qualify for what you need.

Have Questions? Let the experts at Shirley Adams Financial help you!

We will try to assist with all your financial and home buying questions. Contact us today!