How to Get Your Credit Score Up

Understand and know how to improve your credit score so you can shine a light on it when buying a home. Most buyers need to take out a mortgage, and that’s when your finances become an open book. You want to keep it simple and straightforward with your finances as you lead up to buying a home. 

Whether you’re buying your first home, your next home or even refinancing, you need to avoid some risky actions that could hurt your credit score and, ultimately, block you from getting the mortgage you want.

Lenders will look at you and your credit history thoroughly before they preapprove you and even again once you are under contract and on your way to closing. Don’t think you’re off the hook once a lender preapproves you!

Know these 10 Credit Score Commandments and stick to them as you begin the home-buying process.  

1. Thou shalt not change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job. 

2. Thou shalt not buy a car, truck or van (or you may be living in it)! 

3. Thou shalt not use charge cards excessively or let your accounts fall behind. 

4. Thou shalt not spend money you have set aside for closing. 

5. Thou shalt not omit debts or liabilities from your loan application. 

6. Thou shalt not buy furniture. (Even if you’re about to close, just don’t!)

7. Thou shalt not originate any inquiries into your credit. 

8. Thou shalt not make large deposits without first checking with your loan officer.  (It could be suspicious to suddenly have lots of money; a loan or gift from family needs to be acknowledged.) 

9. Thou shalt not change bank accounts. 

10. Thou shalt not co-sign a loan for anyone.

Take a Look at my other articles about credit scores: 

How to Increase Your Credit Score 

Understanding Your Credit Score

3 Common Mistakes with Credit Scores