If you’re planning to buy a home and watching every dollar, your credit score isn’t just a number; it’s a powerful tool that can help you save money. A better credit score can qualify you for a lower interest rate on your mortgage, which could translate to tens of thousands of dollars in savings over the life of your loan.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need a perfect score to get a good deal. With a few smart moves and a little discipline, you can improve your credit score and position yourself for mortgage success. Let’s break it down with simple, budget-friendly steps.
1. Know Where You Stand: Check Your Credit Report
Start by pulling your credit report from the three major bureaus, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. You can do this for free once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com. Look for:
- Errors or inaccuracies
- Old accounts that should be closed
- Negative marks that can be disputed
Disputing errors could give your score an immediate boost. It’s free to do and could be the easiest win.
2. Pay Down Credit Card Balances Strategically
Your credit utilization ratio and how much of your credit limit you’re using are major factors in your credit score. Ideally, you want to use less than 30% of your available credit.
Pro-tip: Begin with your smallest balances or the cards with the highest interest rates. Even an additional payment of $25–$50 each month can have a significant impact over time.
3. Avoid New Credit Applications
When you apply for a new credit line, a hard inquiry is recorded on your credit report. This can temporarily lower your score and indicate risk to lenders. Avoid applying for new credit cards or loans at least six months before seeking a mortgage.
4. Pay Every Bill on Time, Without Fail
This may appear straightforward, but it’s important. Payment history accounts for 35% of your credit score. Even one missed or late payment can cause significant harm.
Pro-tip: Set up auto-pay or calendar reminders for your bills to ensure you never miss a due date.
5. Ask for Credit Limit Increases, But Don’t Spend More
Increasing your available credit without increasing your debt lowers your utilization ratio. You can request a limit increase, often without a hard inquiry.
Pro-tip: Only do this if you’re confident you won’t be tempted to spend the new limit.
6. Don’t Close Old Accounts
Closing old cards that you no longer use may seem smart, but think twice. Older accounts contribute to the length of your credit history, which is another important factor in your score.
If the card has no annual fee, leave it open and use it occasionally for small purchases to keep it active.
Final Thoughts: Small Moves, Big Savings
Improving your credit score may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the most effective money-saving moves you can make as a homebuyer.
Take these steps seriously, and you will increase your chances of qualifying for a mortgage and feel more financially confident every step of the way.
