Get Your Credit Ready: Smart Strategies to Prepare for Homeownership

Nicole Okal

Oct 25

2 min read

At Kelly Reider Homes, we love highlighting the trusted partners who help our clients feel informed and supported on the path to homeownership.

This week, meet Nicole Okal, a loan officer with Movement Mortgage in Virginia Beach and one of our trusted lending partners. Nicole helps homebuyers explore their financing options and prepare for the mortgage process. She serves Virginia and North Carolina, as well as West Virginia, and her NMLS number is 2004076.

We’re pleased to welcome Nicole as our guest blogger. Below, she shares five practical ways to get your credit ready before you start house hunting.

Guest blog by Nicole Okal, Loan Officer at Movement Mortgage | NMLS #2004076

Thinking about buying a home? Your credit is one of the best places to start!

Whether you’re planning to purchase in a few months or next year, taking steps now to strengthen your credit can help you qualify for better mortgage options and potentially save thousands over the life of your loan.

5 Smart Ways to Get Mortgage-Ready

1. Know Your Credit Score

Review your credit reports and check for errors. Knowing where you stand is the first step toward improvement.

2. Pay Down Credit Card Balances

Keeping your credit card balances low compared to your limits can help improve your credit profile. Aim to stay below 30% utilization, and lower is generally better!

3. Make Every Payment on Time

Payment history plays a major role in your credit score. Even one missed payment can have an impact.

4. Avoid Opening New Credit Accounts

Planning to buy soon? Hold off on financing a new car, opening credit cards, or making large purchases on credit until you’ve spoken with your lender.

5. Talk to a Lender Early

You don’t have to wait until your credit is perfect! A mortgage lender can help you understand your financing options, identify areas for improvement, and create a plan toward homeownership.