How to Quickly Boost Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

Simple, Actionable Tips to Get Mortgage-Ready

If you’re dreaming of buying a home but worried your credit score might hold you back—you’re not alone. Many buyers feel stuck because they aren’t sure where to start or how long it will take to improve their credit. The good news? With a few smart moves, you can start boosting your credit score faster than you think.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you unlock your buying power.

🔍 1. Check Your Credit Report for Errors

The very first step is to review your credit report. You can request a free report from all three credit bureaus—Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax—at AnnualCreditReport.com.

What to look for:

• Incorrect balances

• Duplicate accounts

• Late payments you actually made on time

• Accounts that don’t belong to you

Even small reporting errors can drag your score down. If you find any, dispute them immediately—it can make a surprising difference.

📊 2. Lower Your Credit Utilization

Your credit utilization ratio is the amount of credit you’re using compared to your total available credit. Tip: Keep it under 30%—but under 10% is even better.

👉 Example: If you have a $10,000 credit limit, aim to keep your balances under $3,000.

If possible, make extra payments mid-month (not just on the due date) to keep your balances low when the credit bureaus report your usage.

⏰ 3. Pay Bills On Time—Every Time

This one’s simple, but it’s HUGE. Payment history makes up 35% of your credit score. Even one late payment can stay on your report for years and drop your score by dozens of points.

Set up auto-pay or reminders so you never miss a due date. If you have any overdue accounts, bring them current ASAP.

🗓️ 4. Keep Old Accounts Open

The longer your credit history, the better.If you have old credit cards with zero balances, don’t close them. They help improve your “credit age,” which is a factor in your score.

The key is to have a healthy mix of credit and to show responsible, long-term use.

💥 5. Handle Overdue Accounts Quickly

If you have any collections or past-due balances, address them right away.Sometimes, you can negotiate with creditors or debt collectors to settle for less, or you may be able to have a negative mark removed in exchange for payment (this is called “pay for delete”).

Tip: Be sure to get any agreement in writing before you make a payment.

🚀 Quick Wins to Boost Your Score Fast:

• Ask for a credit limit increase (but don’t spend more!)

• Become an authorized user on a trusted family member’s credit card

• Pay down small balances to zero

• Keep credit inquiries to a minimum before you apply for your mortgage

💬 Let’s Build Your Credit & Buying Power Together

Improving your credit score can save you thousands over the life of your loan—and can make the difference between qualifying or missing out.

I’m Desiree Lowe, and I help homebuyers every day with tailored strategies to get mortgage-ready. Let’s chat about your specific situation—I’ll guide you through your credit questions, your loan options, and the steps to getting the keys to your dream home.

📩 Reach out anytime, I’m here to help!