-When it comes to obtaining a mortgage, your credit score plays a crucial role in determining the interest rates and terms you’ll be offered. A higher credit score opens doors to better mortgage options. So, if you’re planning to purchase a home and want to secure a good mortgage rate, it’s essential to focus on improving your credit score. Marc Coons, the Paso Robles home lender, has some strategies to help increase the chances of getting a favorable mortgage rate.
- Understanding your current credit situation is crucial before embarking on a credit improvement journey. Obtain a copy of your credit report from all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and carefully review it for any errors or discrepancies. Identify areas that require attention, such as late payments, high credit card balances, or collections. Keep an eye on credit reports and scores going forward.
- Paying bills on time is one of the most critical factors in establishing creditworthiness. Late payments can have a negative impact on your overall credit rating and late charges are expensive. A track record of on-time payments demonstrates to lenders that you’re a responsible borrower, increasing your chances of securing a favorable mortgage rate.
- Reducing credit use is a vital factor in scoring your credit utilization ratio. The utilization ratio is the amount of credit used compared to total available credit. Aim to keep your utilization below 30%. Paying down existing debt, such as credit card balances, can have a significant impact on your score. Lowering your credit utilization demonstrates financial discipline and signals to lenders that you can manage your finances responsibly. Even though you may be able to buy a home with the assistance of the Paso Robles home lender, the higher your credit score, the better interest rate you get.
- Avoid opening new accounts. While it might be tempting to apply for new credit cards or loans during the mortgage process, doing so can negatively affect your credit score. Each new application triggers a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your score. Additionally, opening new credit accounts can impact your average account age, which is another factor considered in credit scoring models. To maintain a good credit score and increase your chances of securing a favorable mortgage rate, refrain from applying for new credit until after your mortgage is finalized.
- Work with a credit counselor: If your credit situation is particularly challenging, seeking guidance from a reputable credit counselor can be invaluable. Credit counselors can help you develop a personalized action plan to improve your credit score. They can provide advice on debt management, budgeting, and negotiating with creditors. Be sure to research and select a credit counseling agency accredited by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA). With their expertise and support, you can make informed decisions and navigate the path to a better credit score more effectively.
It’s not unusual, even for those with very good credit scores, to have to shop around for ideal mortgage options and still be turned down for a variety of reasons that appear unsatisfactory to the lender.
Working with Marc Coons, the Paso Robles home lender, is another way, in addition to a good credit score, to increase your chances of getting an ideal mortgage interest rate and other terms.
Marc has been helping individuals and families find their perfect home loan in Paso Robles and on the Central Coast since 2004. Recognizing that each customer has unique needs, backed by Certainty Home Lending, with access to multiple lenders, Marc applies his experience to streamline the entire loan process and get you the best loan possible.
Whether buying your first house, a condominium, a ranch, a small farm, or planning on building or refinancing, Marc and his team of professional loan consultants work for you to make the process as easy as possible and get you the best loan for your future.
Contact us today to get started!