🐾 10 Steps to Improve Your Credit Score (and Get Mortgage-Ready!)

Hey fur-iends! Becky here—your trusty Barketing Manager at A Notch Above Group. 🐶

If you're thinking about buying a home, there's one number you really need to sniff out first...
👉 Your credit score.

Your credit score is more than just a three-digit number—it’s your VIP pass to better mortgage rates, easier approvals, and more treat-worthy loan terms.

If your score’s not quite where you want it to be, don’t worry. I’ve got a tail-waggin’ plan of attack to help you fetch that higher score—step by step!

📝 Step 1: Obtain Your Credit Reports

Start by requesting your free credit reports from the three major bureaus:
✅ Equifax
✅ Experian
✅ TransUnion

You can do this once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com. It’s totally free—no chew toys required.

🔎 Step 2: Review for Accuracy

Give your reports a thorough sniff! Look for:

• Accounts that don’t belong to you
  
  
• Incorrect balances
  
  
• Missed payments that were actually paid
  
  
• Outdated personal info
  
  

Even one little error can make your score sit and stay.

🛠 Step 3: Dispute Any Errors

If you spot a boo-boo, contact the credit bureau immediately to file a dispute.
Include documents to back up your claim (like billing statements or payment confirmations). Bureaus are required to investigate and respond—usually within 30 days.

🐾 Step 4: Address Negative Items

Have some late payments or collections?
Consider writing a goodwill letter to the creditor explaining your situation—and kindly ask if they’d consider removing the negative mark. Doesn’t always work, but hey, it’s worth a shot!

📞 Step 5: Negotiate with Creditors

If you owe money, don’t hide under the porch—reach out!
You might be able to:

• Set up a payment plan
  
  
• Settle for less than the full amount
  
  
• Request that the account be marked “Paid in Full”
  
  

Pro tip: Always get the agreement in writing.

⏰ Step 6: Pay Bills on Time (No Exceptions)

This is the biggest factor in your credit score. One late payment can do major damage.

Set calendar reminders, automate payments, or use budgeting apps to keep your bills on track. Lenders love consistency!

💳 Step 7: Reduce Credit Card Balances

Keep your usage under 30% of your credit limit—under 10% is even better!

This shows lenders that you’re responsible and not over-stretched. And yes, paying down those balances can give your score a healthy little boost!

🚫 Step 8: Avoid New Credit Applications

Each new credit application creates a “hard inquiry,” which can lower your score temporarily.

Unless it’s absolutely necessary, hold off on applying for new credit—especially if you plan to buy a home soon.

💡 Step 9: Consider a Secured Credit Card

If your credit history is short or needs a rebuild, a secured credit card might help.

You make a deposit up front (like a safety net), then use the card responsibly to build credit over time. Just be sure to pay it off each month!

👀 Step 10: Monitor Your Credit Regularly

Keep an eye on your progress with free credit monitoring tools like:

• Credit Karma
  
  
• Credit Sesame
  
  
• Your bank or credit card’s built-in tools
  
  

Monitoring helps you track improvements and spot suspicious activity early.

🏡 The Bottom Line: Good Credit = More Keys and Fewer Headaches

Fixing your credit isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being proactive.
Whether you're a few months away from buying or just getting started, this 10-step plan will help you build stronger financial habits and get mortgage-ready.

And when you're ready to fetch your dream home? My team and I will be right here, ready to help—no leash-pulling necessary. 🐶

📲 Need help getting started or finding a local lender?
Let’s chat! We’ll walk you through the next steps and connect you with trusted pros who’ll help you sniff out the best mortgage options for your situation.

🐾 Like our page to stay in the loop on all things North Country real estate and to see what wild, wacky, or wonderful day I’m celebrating next! 🎉

🔁 Share this post to help your friends build better credit—and get closer to homeownership.

💬 Got questions about buying or selling? Slide into our DMs—I’ve got a whole team of humans ready to help you every step of the way (I supervise, of course). 🐶

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