Seven Ways To Protect Your Credit Score For Better Mortgage Rates

by Tyler Osby on February 5, 2010

How Important is a Credit Score Anyway?

As mortgage lenders continue tightening approval standards in Iowa and nationwide, the importance of a good credit score is extremely high.  Credit scores not only make the difference between a mortgage approval and mortgage turn-down, but they also play a large role in determining your actual mortgage note rate.  Seriously, this advice could save you thousands of dollars over the life of your new loan.

In the 3-minute piece, the NBC Today Show talks about seven ways that homebuyers goof up their credit — sometimes on accident!  Some of the highlighted mistakes include:

  • Closing open credit cards
  • Making appliance buys on credit prior to closing
  • Asking creditors to lower credit balances prior to closing

Generally speaking, a 740 FICO will insulate a borrower from the higher costs and/or interest rates associated with low credit scores.  Below 740, though, every 20 points adds to the fees and/or rate.  Watch this video and apply what you can to your own situation.  The more you know, the more you can save.

If you’re currently considering getting a loan, and wondering where your rate will fall, give us a call!  We’d love to help you out.  Give us a call at 515-257-6729 or email me.  I LOVE this stuff.

Leave a Comment

Previous post:

Next post: