Worried about Your FICO Score? 4 Easy Strategies to Fix It Up

If you’re worried about your bad credit, you’ll want to do everything in your power to improve your rating as quickly as possible – especially if you have a major purchase coming up. Improving your credit rating can give you access to better interest rates on mortgages or even help you to get that job you’re after.

IMPORTANT! If you are currently involved in a home loan transaction, speak with your trusted real estate advisor before taking any action regarding your credit!

So how can you boost your FICO score quickly and easily? Here’s what you need to know.

Get Your Credit Report And Dispute Any Errors

Credit reporting agencies don’t always keep 100% perfect records, and there’s a good chance that your credit report contains at least one error. One recent FTC study found that 25% of consumers have an error on their credit report, and that in 5% of cases, the errors were actually severe enough to impact the loan terms that borrowers were able to negotiate.

You can get your annual credit report from all three credit reporting agencies for free. Carefully read over it. If you see any errors – if your name is misspelled, if they have the wrong address on file, or if there are late or unpaid charges that you didn’t make – you can dispute the items in question.

Still Overdue? Negotiate Payment Terms With Your Creditors

If you’re overdue on a payment, it will weigh heavily on your credit score. As your payment history makes up a full 35% of your FICO score, this is one area where you’ll want to invest a great deal of time and effort.

Contact any creditors you owe money to and ask if you can negotiate your bill. The ideal outcome for you is to have the creditor report your debt as paid in full, so see if you can secure that promise in writing in exchange for an accelerated payment schedule.

Try Maintaining A Lower Utilization Ratio

Your utilization ratio refers to the amount of credit you use at any given time. If this number goes beyond 30 percent, you’ll start to see your credit score drop. Ideally, you should aim for a utilization ratio below 10 percent – this will prove to your lender that you can responsibly pay for the credit you use.

Have Recurring Bills? Automate Your Payments

Automating your monthly payments can be a great way to boost your credit score. Whether it’s your mortgage, your credit card, or your student loan, a pre-authorized monthly payment will ensure that everything gets paid on time and give you a great credit history.

Your FICO score is a number that will determine your eligibility for mortgages and other loans. These are general tips to help with your credit score and improve the overall reporting of your credit.

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

821 W Saguaro Lane San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$465,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,082 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6635619

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This two-level home in Skyline Ranch has 22 Solar Panels - owned - included, to save hundreds of dollars on your annual electric bill! Newer exterior paint with faux stone and decorative wrought iron window finishings. Explore inside to discover a wood-look flooring that stretches throughout the home and arched doorways. The kitchen is complete with granite counters, maple wood cabinetry, two pantries, recessed lighting, a center island with a breakfast bar, and built-in appliances, including a refrigerator. On the first floor, you will find a large bedroom & full bathroom, along with great storage space under the stairs, that will make this perfect for multi-living opportunities. Primary bedroom showcases double, french doors, a sitting room, private bathroom with dual sinks, an enormous garden tub, separate shower and a MASSIVE walk-in closet! With two additional bedrooms and bathroom on the second floor, you will also find a versatile loft area with built-in surround sound that can be utilized as a home office, playroom or movie room. The home also has a large family room/dining room, separate living room and dining nook. The large backyard, with a great covered patio, provides excellent space. Walking distance from the community playground and park.

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2401 E Rio Salado Parkway Tempe, AZ 85288

$465,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,380 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6652290

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Resort style gated community! The Location can't be Beat! Walking distance to the Cubs Sloan Park Stadium. Right off of 101 & 202 FWY, ASU, Bus stops, Airport, Tempe Market Place! Popular 3 Bed & Den 2.5 Bath floorplan with a large open living area adjoining a full kitchen with island. Downstairs is the living area, spacious downstairs den/bonus room/large home office (at 126 SF!), Kitchen & breakfast area overlooking a private covered patio & backyard. Upstairs is master bedroom & master bath, laundry & 2 additional bedrooms with another bath. Two car garage and lots of additional guest parking in this beautifully maintained complex! 2 Pools and lots of area to walk your dog! Move in ready! Hurry! 3 bedroom unit sure to go quickly

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18300 N Shimmer Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$465,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,627 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6654095

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Desired Madera model with great room floor plan, and heated salt water pool! Lush landscaping backyard provide plenty of privacy when frolicking in the salt water pool. Home has been professionally modified to a large open great room, ideal for a larger table and game area. Inside features plantation shutters throughout, GE profile kitchen appliances, additional kitchen cabinets with built-in desk, a bay window in the primary bedroom, two sinks in primary bath, and inside laundry with utility sink. Garage has built-in and workbench. The pebble-tec pool pool with its attractive water feature is heated and self-cleaning. Your tropical backyard has an extended covered patio with pull-down shades and strategically planted foliage that provide privacy.

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3789 E Yorkshire Circle San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,134 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6658819

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PRICE ADJUSTMENT -This delightful property is nestled on a premium corner lot! Immaculate interior boasts vaulted ceilings, tons of tile flooring, fresh/new carpet in all the right places, graceful archways, & a spacious living/dining room w/French doors to the custom AZ room. The kitchen was update w/newer appliances, recessed lighting, granite counters, & ample white cabinetry w/crown molding. Super island w/a breakfast bar & a breakfast nook is ideal for casual dining. The generously sized AZ Room is bathed in sunlight with ceiling fans, excellent for year-round entertainment. Retreat to the main suite, w/ AZ room access, a full ensuite w/dual sinks, & a walk-in closet. Delightful backyard has artificial turf landscape & looks like a beautiful park!

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3841 Turkey Trail Lakeside, AZ 85929

$465,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,072 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659919

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home that seamlessly blends comfort, style, and functionality. With an open concept lies a kitchen, which boasts recent upgrades, providing both modern aesthetics and practicality. Stainless steel appliances, sleek countertops, and ample cabinet space make this kitchen a haven for both aspiring chefs and busy families. The home features a thoughtful layout, with a spacious living room perfect for hosting gatherings and a separate family room that provides a more intimate space for relaxation. The family room opens up possibilities for cozy movie nights or quiet evenings with loved ones. Newly installed heating and cooling systems ensure year-round comfort, allowing you to enjoy every season without compromise. The large windows throughout the home allow natural light to flood in, creating a bright and airy ambiance. Outside, the expansive fenced backyard offers a private retreat. With an RV gate and hook-ups, it's a dream for adventure enthusiasts looking to hit the open road. For those with a penchant for hobbies or extra storage space, the property comes complete with a spacious 3-car garage and 2 additional outbuildings. Whether you're a car enthusiast, DIY enthusiast, or simply need extra space, these structures provide endless possibilities.

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2613 N 110th Drive Avondale, AZ 85392

$465,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,957 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6662708

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Quiet cul-de-sac single story home with Lake Views from your backyard. Located near the 10 and 101 freeways, shopping, dining and entertainment. This home boast an open floor plan, formal living and dining, large den that can be used as a 4th bedroom. Granite counter tops throughout the home. Open Kitchen marble backsplash with stainless steel appliances. Ceiling fans, tile and only carpet in the bedrooms. Enjoy your ramada and patio in the backyard for entertaining. Separate entrance to the patio from the master suite. Newer AC, water heater.

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4139 W Desert Hills Drive Phoenix, AZ 85029

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,768 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665588

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

TURN KEY READY! Beautifully remodeled 4 bed 2bath home! This is home is equipped with a spacious floor plan, renovated pool, updated kitchen appliances and so much more!

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17744 W Buckhorn Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$465,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,044 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6667478

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Newly sold-out Desert Oasis in Surprise community has a new resale to the market. This beautiful 2,040 sq ft, 4 bed, 2 bath home was built in 2022. This home boasts attractive tile and upgraded carpet throughout; split floorplan; elegant owner's suite has extra windows, double sinks w/quartz countertops, large shower, private toilet room, and an oversized walk-in closet; an spacious open dining room, a large great room w/additional windows; well-appointed kitchen featuring 42'' upper cabinets, quartz countertops, an oversized island, walk-in pantry, & upgraded stainless-steel appliances, including gas range & double oven; central indoor laundry room; and three additional bedrooms & bathroom providing ample space for rest and relaxation. Additional highlights include a stacked stone home front, professionally landscaped front yard, designer brick paver driveway & walkway w/a charming, covered entry; 2-car garage w/extended length for extra storage space, a service door, and 8' tall garage doors; rear yard oasis w/a good sizes covered patio, picturesque trees, shrubs, flowers, and artificial turf.

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2574 E Detroit Place Chandler, AZ 85225

$465,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,427 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6669633

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning home in the highly sought-after community of Dobson Place is available for purchase or rent to own! A well thought out and popular floor plan makes this home perfect for those who love to entertain. Upgraded flooring throughout. The backyard is beautifully landscaped, and the entire house features a stylish neutral color scheme. Perfect opportunity to get into the ever growing Chandler market or make a good addition to your portfolio. The primary bath has dual sinks and a step-in shower, as well as a spacious walk-in closet. This home is located centrally in the neighborhood, away from any busy roads. Located 5 minutes from Downtown Chandler and within 10 minutes of Downtown Gilbert. Welcome to your next home that has just been remodeled and is ready for you

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864 W Shannon Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$465,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,464 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6671208

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come see this absolutely GORGEOUS remodeled single story in Chandler! This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths & & a refreshing swimming pool! NEW ROOF, Wood Plank Tile Flooring, Neutral color palette & fixtures you'll love! Stunning Eat-in Kitchen boasts White Shaker Cabinetry, Quartz Counters, stunning geometric backsplash & Stainless Steel Appliances. Owner's suite boasts a generously-sized Closet & ¾ Ensuite Bathroom w/ new Vanity & Dual Flush toilet! Large entertaining backyard w/ pool, covered patio, RV gate & storage shed. Hurry, you will not find another one like this.

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13110 W Ballad Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$465,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,519 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6671231

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This lovely San Franciscan model has great curb appeal with 3 bedrooms, 1.75 bath, 2.5 car garage. No solar payments as pre-paid lease. Very low electric bills. Nice front double door entry w/stained glass window.Outside of home painted 3/23. Private courtyard off master bedroom. Kitchen has been remodeled w/granite counter tops, tile backsplash throughout, stainless steel appliances & recessed lights. Tile in kitchen, both baths & laundry. Laminate & carpet in rest of home. Popcorn ceilings removed. Ceiling fans .Master bedroom has laminate flooring,dressing table & his & hers walk-in closets. Master bath has tub/shower combo,dual sinks,skylight,raised toilet & heat/light/vent fan .Large hall bath has linen closet, step-in shower w/marble surrounds, raised toilet & heat/light/vent fan.

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17903 W San Alejandro Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$465,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6671804

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BRAND NEW ROOF. AC under 2 yrs old. Estrella Mountain Ranch stunner. Enter into the open concept living area with vaulted ceilings and large windows providing lots of natural light. The kitchen is bright and equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, ample cabinet space and a breakfast bar for casual dining. The spacious primary bedroom features vaulted ceilings and has a full ensuite: double sinks, shower, walk-in closet and separate exit to the backyard pool. Has recently been repainted to more neutral color. Granite counters in 2nd bath. The Pebbletech pool has a variable speed pump. New roof underlayment and new water heater. The area is a little bit of heaven with mountains, hiking trails, lakes, golf courses, PICKLEBALL, tennis and beautiful clubhouses.

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