If you are thinking of buying a home in the near future, there’s one three-digit number that could be oh so important to you. That number is your credit score. Read on to find out how a credit score can affect you and the steps you can take to be sure that your credit is in good standing when you head to apply for a mortgage.
What Is A Credit Score?
Your credit score is checked by lenders of all kinds. Every time you apply for a loan or a credit card, there’s a good chance that your credit score is being pulled to see if you qualify for the loan. Your credit score is calculated based on the information on your credit report. This information includes:
Payment history
Debt-to-credit ratio
Length of credit history
New credit accounts opened
The areas with the most impact on your score is your payment history and your debt-to-credit ratio. This means that on-time payments are super important. You also don’t want to get anywhere close to maxing out your credit cards or loan amounts to keep your score up.
What’s A Good Score?
If you’re aiming for the perfect credit score, it’s 850. Most consumers won’t reach that state of perfection. That’s, OK because you don’t have to be perfect to buy a house. If your score is 740 and above, know that you’re in great shape to get a mortgage. Even if your score is below 740 but around 700 or above, you’ll be able to get a good interest rate on your mortgage. Most lenders typically look for a score of 620 and above. Keep in mind that the higher your credit score the better your interest rate will be.
What If You Lack Credit History?
Most people should get a credit card around age 20 in order to begin building credit. You can still qualify for a mortgage without a credit history, but it will be considerably harder. Lenders may look at things like your rent payments or car payments. Lenders want to know that you’re a responsible person to lend to.
What If Your Score Needs Help?
It doesn’t mean you’re a hopeless case if you lack good credit. Everything from errors on your credit report to missed payments can be fixed. The most important thing that you can do if you’re buying a home in the near future is to be mindful of your credit. Keep an eye on your credit report and continue to make timely payments. With a bit of focus, you’ll be well on your way to securing a mortgage for the home of your dreams.
About the Author
Janie Schriewer
Welcome to the Janie Schriewer & Associates at RE/MAX Results. Janie just wrapped up her 30th year in the business & over that time has been adapting to the always-evolving Real Estate industry. In recent years she has added 2 members: Her Son Derek—Licensed Buyer & Technology Specialist, and Buyers' associate Melissa Kelley. We are all full-service REALTORS who can assist with selling your home and/or finding you your next home. The added professionals mean potential Clients have more convenience for showings & direct communication with Franklin County areas real estate Leaders.
Communication is crucial in Real Estate & Janie leads by example for our team as she prides herself on availability to her clients. Whether you prefer texting, phone calls, emails, or instant messaging, Janie Schriewer & Associates can accommodate. Whenever you want to talk to us or work with a REALTOR, the Schriewer’s have the experience & care to offer the right advice for your situation. We know the intricacies of negotiating a deal from the original offer to the signatures at closing as well as alleviating all of the hurdles that may arise in between. We treat you just like family. We care about you and what is best for you. Call Us today. Thank you as always for friends, past clients and customers we love referrals. Talk to you soon.