Why Your Credit Score Matters When Buying a Home - The Five Factors of Your Credit Score

Payment History - 35% How you’ve paid your bills in the past. A long history making payments on time and not missing payments can have the most positive impact on your credit score.

Outstanding Credit Card Balances - 30% The amount you owe relative to the total amount of credit available. People with the best credit scores tend to keep their balances low.

Length of Credit History - 15% The age of your open credit lines - the longer your credit history, the better.

Type of Credit - 10% Your current mix of credit cards, retail accounts, finance company loans and mortgage loans - a diverse mix of credit is best.

Inquiries - 10% How many credit applications you’re filling out. Multiple credit report inquiries can lower your score.

Raising Your Credit Score - The best score to have is generally 720 or above - you are viewed as a safe risk and typically will receive a loan with a lower interest rate. If your score is below 720, we can help you develop a strategy to raise your score. Making payments on time, lowering your credit card balances, keeping older accounts open, and using discretion when applying for new credit will all help to increase your score.

Lenders estimate your ability to pay back money borrowed based on your credit score. A high credit score can result in a lower interest rate and save you thousands of dollars in interest paid over the life of the loan.

Remember to get pre-qualified for your dream home before you shop so you know how much you can truly afford; or, if you’re just thinking about a refinance call 425-405-9973 and ask to speak with a Loan Officer. We offer a wide range of products with flexible down payment options.

For more information...