What Is My Credit Score and Why Is It Important?
Your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness based on your history of borrowing and repaying loans. This number tells lenders how risky it would be to lend money to you. A higher credit score signifies a lower risk, often leading to more favorable loan terms, such as lower interest rates. Thus, improving your credit score isn’t just about meeting minimum loan requirements—it’s about securing better financing options for your dream home.
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April 28, 2024
How Does a Hard Credit Inquiry Impact My Score, and What’s the Deal with Mortgage Applications?
When you apply for credit, the lender performs what’s known as a “hard credit inquiry” or “hard pull” to evaluate your creditworthiness. Hard inquiries can slightly lower your credit score and typically stay on your credit report for two years. However, don’t let this deter you from shopping for the best mortgage rates. When it comes to mortgage applications, the credit scoring models have a feature called “rate shopping.” This means that multiple hard inquiries from mortgage lenders within a short period (typically 14 to 45 days, depending on the credit scoring model) are grouped together and treated as a single inquiry on your credit report. This system acknowledges that shopping around for the best mortgage deal is normal. So while applying for a mortgage may cause a slight, temporary dip in your credit score, it doesn’t impact your score nearly as much as many think. It’s always best to do your research and find a mortgage that suits your financial needs and capabilities.
How Does a Mortgage Credit Pull Differ from a Regular Credit Score Check?
You might be surprised to find that the credit score your mortgage lender pulls for you doesn’t match the score you see on popular credit monitoring sites like Credit Karma. The reason lies in the different scoring models used. Many online sites and credit card issuers provide you with a VantageScore, a credit score developed by the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax). While VantageScore offers a good general overview of your credit health, it’s not typically the score mortgage lenders use.
Most mortgage lenders use a model from FICO (Fair Isaac Corporation), specifically FICO Score 2, 4, or 5. These older versions of FICO are also known as “classic” or “industry-specific” FICO scores. They slightly weigh factors differently than the VantageScore or even the more commonly known FICO Score 8 and 9 used by other lenders.
The takeaway? Don’t be alarmed if your lender’s score seems off compared to what you’ve seen elsewhere. It’s a different kind of score designed to predict your ability to repay a large, long-term loan like a mortgage. It’s also why it’s crucial to maintain good overall credit habits, as each scoring model values responsible credit use.
How To Improve Your Credit Score?
Credit repair may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are five tips on how to improve your credit score:
- Pay Your Bills On Time: This is the most straightforward way to improve your credit score. Regular, on-time payments show lenders that you are reliable and can manage your debts responsibly.
- Lower Your Credit Utilization: This refers to the percentage of your available credit that you’re currently using. A lower credit utilization rate indicates better credit health.
- Don’t Close Old Credit Cards: The length of your credit history contributes to your credit score. Keeping old credit cards open, even if you don’t use them often, can help maintain or improve your credit score.
- Limit New Credit Inquiries: Every time you apply for new credit, it can slightly lower your credit score. So, limit these applications unless necessary.
- Dispute Any Errors on Your Credit Report: Inaccuracies on your credit report can unfairly lower your credit score. If you find any, contact the credit bureau to dispute them.
What Is a Rapid Rescore and How Can It Help?
Sometimes, you need a quick boost in your credit score—enter the rapid rescore. A rapid rescore is a process initiated by a lender or credit repair company to quickly update the information in your credit report. This process can be beneficial if you’ve recently paid down debts or corrected errors on your credit report and want these changes reflected sooner. However, keep in mind that a rapid rescore isn’t a substitute for consistent credit repair behaviors over time.
How Long Does It Take to Improve Your Credit Score?
The time required to improve a credit score varies. If you make small adjustments, such as paying bills on time or reducing credit utilization, you might see improvements in a few months. More significant changes, like recovering from bankruptcy or foreclosure, can take years. The key is patience and consistency.
What Credit Score Is Needed for Different Mortgage Loans?
Different types of mortgage loans have varying credit score requirements:
- Conventional Loans: These loans typically require a minimum credit score of 620. However, you might need a score of 740 or higher to access more competitive interest rates.
- FHA Loans: FHA loans are backed by the government and are more forgiving on credit scores. You might qualify with a credit score as low as 500, but a score of 580 or higher will give you more favorable terms.
- VA Loans: These loans, available to veterans, often do not have a minimum credit score requirement. However, many lenders typically look for a credit score of 620 or more.
- USDA Loans: These loans are for rural homebuyers. While the USDA doesn’t set a credit score requirement, lenders typically require a score of at least 640.
Improving your credit score can help you qualify for these loans and secure better rates.
By now, you should better understand how to improve your credit score to buy a house. Remember, whether it’s through regular credit repair or a rapid rescore, enhancing your credit score is an achievable goal. At JVM Lending we have many tools and resources to help make sure your credit score
