Why Your Credit Score Matters

Your credit score plays a major role in determining whether you’ll qualify for a mortgage — and what interest rate you'll get. A higher score can save you thousands over the life of your loan. The good news? Even small improvements can make a big difference.

Five Actionable Ways to Improve Your Score

• Pay All Bills On Time — Payment history makes up the largest part of your credit score.

• Lower Your Credit Card Balances — Keep usage below 30% of your total limit.

• Avoid Opening New Credit Accounts — Each inquiry can slightly drop your score.

• Don’t Close Old Credit Cards — Older accounts improve your credit age.

• Check Your Credit Report for Errors — Dispute mistakes that could be dragging your score down.

How Soon Should You Start?

Ideally, start boosting your credit 3–6 months before applying for a mortgage. This gives lenders a clear, improved track record and increases your chances of better rates and approval. Remember, every point counts!