What makes up your credit score
- Payment history: paying on time is the biggest factor
- How much you owe: keeping card balances low compared to your limits helps
- Length of credit history: older accounts help
- New credit: opening several new accounts quickly can lower your score
- Credit mix: a healthy mix of credit types can help a little
During your loan: what to avoid
- Opening new credit cards or loans
- Financing a car, furniture, or appliances
- Co-signing for someone else
- Closing older credit cards
- Missing any payments
If you need to make a big purchase, wait until after your loan closes.
Found an error on your report?
Errors happen. If something on your report is wrong, you can dispute it with the credit bureau. Talk with us first, because disputes in progress can sometimes delay a mortgage.
Be careful with "credit repair" promises
Be cautious of companies that promise to quickly raise your score for a fee. Accurate information can't legally be removed. Real improvement comes from steady, on-time habits.
Credit isn't everything
Your income, savings, and the home itself matter too. Even if your credit isn't perfect, there may be a program that fits. Programs like FHA have flexible guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
Will visiting your website or calling you affect my credit?
No. We'll only check your credit with your permission when you apply.
Which credit bureaus do you use?
Mortgage lenders typically review reports from all three major bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Can adding a co-borrower help?
Sometimes. We'll walk you through how a co-borrower's credit and income affect your application.