How To Prepare Your Credit for a Home Purchase or
Your credit score determines what type of mortgage and interest rate you'll qualify for, so it's important to take these steps BEFORE you start shopping. Pay all your bills on time. These include your mortgage statements, car payments, credit cards, etc. Keep your credit cards lines open. As you build your credit, more opportunities will become available with new cards and benefits. If you open a new credit card with better benefits, keep your old line open. Even if you aren't using the card, having a long credit history helps keep your credit scores strong.Get copies of your credit reports and dispute any errors. If there are any discrepancies with your credit, the sooner you catch them, the better. Staying up to date with your usage and reporting is essential. Avoid applying for new credit. Unless it is absolutely necessary and you need to buy a new car, home, or open a new