3 Simple Tips for Boosting Your FICO Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

There are a variety of factors that are involved in getting your mortgage approved, but few things will have more of an impact than your FICO score and the credit history that goes along with it. Instead of leaving your score up to chance when submitting your application, here are a few ways that you can boost your financial well being and leave your credit score better off than it was before.

Put More On Your Card

It’s important to put purchases on your credit card that you can afford to pay off consistently, but many people are not aware that how much debt you owe can actually positively contribute to your credit score. While it’s good to use up to 30% of your available debt load, a significantly higher percentage than this can be a signal to lenders that you are experiencing financial difficulties. By putting everyday items on credit, it will be easier to give your score an instant boost.

Clear Your Credit History

Many people who think they have bad credit are too afraid to even review it, but it’s very important to take a look at your credit history when it comes to taking control of your finances and your FICO score. If there happens to be incorrect information on your credit report, this will enable you to contact the appropriate lenders and dispute the charges so they can be corrected prior to your mortgage application. It may not seem significant, but this can actually have a marked impact on the outcome of your application.

Make Your Payments On Time

It’s often the case that those who are struggling with debt may push away the bills altogether and give up on the minimum payment, but it’s very important that the minimum is made to keep your financial health in check. It may take a few months to see the results of putting down this amount before the due date, but it will improve your credit over time and forge good habits for the future.

Your credit score is an important aspect of determining your financial health for lenders, and this means that your credit history is of significant importance when it comes to your mortgage. Instead of leaving it up to chance, ensure that you’re making the minimum payments and correct any discrepancies in your credit report.

If you’re currently in the market for a home and are considering your options, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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174 E Palomino Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$459,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,921 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6689071

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful single-story home in golf course Community, Johnson Ranch. Kitchen upgraded with granite Counters & backsplash. Brand new luxury vinyl through the home. Neutral wall colors, Large RV gate, 2 car garage. Backyard features a large oversized lot with a beautiful sparkling pebble tech pool. Lots of amenities in the area including Community Heated Pool and Spa, Tennis & Pickleball Courts, Walking Paths and Playgrounds plus Pitch & Putt course. ,

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26310 N 131st Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$459,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,820 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6690392

Property Type Single Family Residence

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Welcome to Rancho Cabrillo Subdivision in North Peoria, nestled between Lake Pleasant and the White Tank Mountains where the sunset glow dances across the natural beauty of the Arizona desert landscape. With 1820 sq. ft. of interior living space, 3 BED + Office/Den, 2 Baths and a 2 CAR Garage. Open concept main living area, crisp light gray color pallet with white trim and doors. Stylish multi-color wood look plank ceramic floors that compliment any decorating style. Open concept kitchen, dark espresso cabinets, black/white granite countertops, pendant lighting, stainless steel appliances package and a walk-in pantry for all your storage needs. Open master suite with updated ceiling light/fan fixture and can lighting. Master Bath features double sinks, a large tiled shower with seating and a walk in closet. 2 additional bedrooms, a full bath plus a spacious front Office/Den, that makes a great flex space for work, family or guests. Step out back and take a deep breath, property backs up to a green space, low maintenance with a paved covered patio and seating area, green space for pets or games. Neighborhood mountain views, close proximity to 303 freeway access, 10 minutes to TSMC, shopping, dining, entertainment, health care, and less than 20 min. away from beautiful Lake Pleasant Regional Park.

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8534 E Navarro Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$459,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,729 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693497

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 3 bedroom home plus a den in great neighborhood! You get Gilbert's great Schools but pay Mesa's low taxes! Amazing kitchen has granite countertops, double ovens, gas cook top, white painted raised panel staggered cabinets, built in micro & under cabinet lighting. Home has beautiful wood tile flooring throughout, upgraded baseboards, NEW DUAL PAINE VINYL WINDOWS 2019, high end Pella double doors with built in blinds, ceiling fans, canned lights, neutral paint, vaulted ceilings. Open & spacious floorplan! Den could easily be used as 4th bedroom. Great backyard with covered patio, 3 citrus trees (lime, lemon & grapefruit) & large grassy play area. Great location just down the street from a large park, super close to both the 202 & US 60 freeways & plenty of shopping/entertainment!

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864 S 80th Street Mesa, AZ 85208

$459,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,984 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6684531

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home! Beautiful Home in Fountain of the Sun in a Gated Active Adult Community in Mesa, Furnished, 3 Bedroom 2 1/2 Bath, Updated Kitchen w/ Soft Close White Cabinetry, Large Pantry Area, Granite Counters and Stainless Appliances, Large Open Floor Plan with Tile Flooring , Primary Bedroom w/Walk-In Closet, French Doors & Updated Bathroom w/ Walk-In Shower, 2 Guest Bedrooms w/ Updated Guest Bathroom w/ Walk-In Shower, Carpet in the Bedrooms, Large Laundry Area w/ Wash Sink and 1/2 Bath, Storage Room, Updated Dual Pane Windows, New Roof (2019), New Water Heater (2024), Beautiful Covered Back Patio Area (10' by 30'') with Fenced in Yard Great for Entertaining, Terrific Front Courtyard!

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