Top Tips for Improving Your Credit in California: A Guide by Citizens Financial

Your credit score is one of the most important factors that lenders consider when deciding whether to approve you for a mortgage or any other type of loan. If you’re looking to buy a home in California, you need to ensure that your credit score is in good shape. Citizens Financial is a premier independent mortgage company that can help you secure a mortgage that fits your needs. In this post, we’ll share some of our top tips for improving your credit score in California.

1. Check Your Credit Report Regularly Your credit report contains information about your credit history, including your credit accounts, payment history, and outstanding debts. It’s important to check your credit report regularly to ensure that all the information is accurate. Errors on your credit report can negatively impact your credit score.
2. Pay Your Bills on Time One of the most important factors that affect your credit score is your payment history. Late payments can have a significant impact on your credit score, so it’s crucial to pay your bills on time. Set up automatic payments or reminders to help you stay on track.
3. Keep Your Credit Utilization Low Your credit utilization is the amount of credit you’re using compared to the amount of credit available to you. High credit utilization can negatively impact your credit score. It’s recommended to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your available credit.
4. Don’t Apply for Too Much Credit at Once Applying for too much credit at once can have a negative impact on your credit score. Each time you apply for credit, it generates a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can lower your score. Only apply for credit when you need it and avoid opening too many new credit accounts at once.
5. Keep Old Credit Accounts Open The length of your credit history is an important factor that affects your credit score. Keeping old credit accounts open can help improve your credit score. It shows lenders that you have a long credit history and are a responsible borrower.

Improving your credit score is essential when it comes to securing a mortgage in California. By following these tips, you can improve your credit score and increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage. Citizens Financial is here to help you navigate the mortgage process and find a loan that fits your needs. Contact us today to learn more.