Benchmark Realty, LLC

Simple Tips to Keep Your FICO High

September 11, 2012

For today's home buyers and refinancing households, the value of "good credit" has never been higher. Mortgage approvals hinge on your FICO score, as does your final mortgage pricing. If you're shopping for a home in Tennessee, therefore, or contemplating a refinance, be aware of how everyday credit behaviors can affect your FICO. Even small events can make a big impact. Here are some common-sense steps to help improve your credit score. First, keep a "cushion" on your credit cards. 30 percent of your credit score is linked to "Amount Owed" and a big part of Amount Owed is a raw calculation of (1) What you owe in dollar terms, against (2) How much credit you have at your disposal. The credit bureaus want to see at least 70% of your credit "available". If you can keep your cards at least 70% available, your credit scores should improve. Second, don't make major purchases on credit prior to making a mortgage application. This includes opening a store charge card to save 10 percent or more on a washer/dryer set, for example; or for any other appliance or furniture piece. Third, make all of your monthly payments on time -- even the ones in dispute. You may not want to pay that $80 wireless phone bill, for example; the one that you think you owe, but remember that Payment History accounts for 35% of your credit score. Even one late payment -- or payment in collection -- and your credit score can drop.

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Team Tate

[email protected]
(615) 579-3628

318 Seaboard Ln # 112 Franklin, TN 37067