10 Steps to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

Thinking about buying in Virginia, North Carolina, or Maryland? Give your credit some attention before you fall in love with a house. Start with a clear picture of where you stand, then build a routine you can maintain.

Your credit score is one part of mortgage preparation. The score you see in an app may differ from the score a mortgage lender uses, because scoring models and report information vary. A lender can explain how your credit fits your loan options. CFPB: Understand your credit score

1. Review all three credit reports

Request your Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Free online reports are available weekly. Read each one; the information can differ. Checking your own credit does not lower your score. FTC: Free credit reports | CFPB: Credit checks

2. Correct information that is wrong

Look for accounts you do not recognize, incorrect balances, duplicate entries, or payments incorrectly marked late. Dispute errors with the reporting bureau and the business that supplied the information. Explain the issue and keep copies of supporting records. For suspected identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov. CFPB: Disputing errors

3. Make payments on time

Set reminders or automatic payments, and check that money is available when payments run. If you are behind, contact the creditor about your options. Consistent payment history matters. CFPB: Building credit

4. Work down credit card balances

Credit utilization means the share of available credit you use. Lower balances generally help. Keeping utilization below 30% is common guidance, not a guarantee or a magic cutoff. For example, $900 on a $3,000 limit is 30%. CFPB: Building credit

5. Skip the interest-building myth

You do not need to carry a balance or pay interest to build credit. Paying your statement balance in full by its due date can keep interest costs down. CFPB: Building credit

6. Pause unnecessary credit applications

A store-card discount or new car loan deserves extra thought when a home purchase is approaching. Applications can create inquiries, and new borrowing can affect mortgage preparation. Discuss plans with your lender before applying during the mortgage process. CFPB: Mortgage credit checks

7. Think before closing a credit card

Closing a card can reduce available credit and increase utilization on remaining balances. Consider fees, spending habits, and the effect on your overall credit before deciding. Ask your lender about changes when preparing for a mortgage. CFPB: Understanding scores

8. Build a manageable history if you are starting out

A secured card or credit-builder loan may help establish credit. Compare costs and terms first, and choose only an affordable product that fits your needs. Check with your mortgage lender before opening anything if a purchase is near. CFPB: Building credit

9. Avoid promises of an instant fix

Be skeptical of anyone guaranteeing a large score jump or offering to erase accurate, current negative information. You can dispute errors yourself for free. A reputable nonprofit credit counselor may help if you need support managing debt. FTC: Credit repair scams

10. Turn the advice into a routine

Choose a regular day to review balances, upcoming payments, and dispute follow-ups. Keep a simple checklist so the next action is easy to find. Improvement takes time, and no checklist guarantees a particular score or mortgage approval. FTC: Improving credit

Ready to plan your next move?

Start with your reports and one realistic action this week. If homeownership is your goal, I can help you map out the homebuying process and connect with a mortgage professional for questions about credit and financing.

Kelly Reider, REALTOR® | 757-404-2478 | kellyreiderhomes.com | Hometown Realty, LLC (VA) | eXp Realty (NC & MD)

General educational information; a lender or qualified credit counselor can review your individual situation. Sources checked November 6, 2026. |