The 10 “Credit Score” Commandments 

How to Get Your Credit Score Up — Week 4

This series shines a light on the importance of your credit score when buying a home. Most buyers need to take out a mortgage, and thats when your finances become an open book. Lenders will need to gauge if youre worth the risk to lend you money, and this series will help you learn some important strategies so you dont miss out on becoming a homeowner.

You want to keep it simple and straightforward with your finances as you lead up to buying a home. Nothing extravagant or excessive during this time.

It’s all about what NOT to do!

Whether you’re buying your first home, your next home or even refinancing, you need to avoid some risky actions that could hurt your credit score and, ultimately, block you from getting the mortgage you want.

Lenders will look at you and your credit history thoroughly before they preapprove you and even again once you are under contract and on your way to closing. Don’t think you’re off the hook once a lender preapproves you!

Know these 10 Commandments and stick to them as you begin the home-buying process.  

They’re your handy reminder of what NOT to do – so you can keep your credit score on track from start to finish.  Better yet, follow them well before you even start looking for a home so your finances and score will be well regarded by lenders.

At first glance, these 10 Commandments seem very easy to follow. However, you’d be amazed at how ignoring just ONE of these items can do damage.

1. Thou shall not change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job. 

2. Thou shall not buy a car, truck or van (or you may be living in it)! 

3. Thou shall not use charge cards excessively or let your accounts fall behind. 

4. Thou shall not spend money you have set aside for closing. 

5. Thou shall not omit debts or liabilities from your loan application. 

6. Thou shall not buy furniture. (even if youre scheduled to close tomorrow morning… just dont!)

7. Thou shall not originate any inquiries into your credit. 

8. Thou shall not make large deposits without first checking with your loan officer.  (It could be suspicious to suddenly have lots of money; a loan or gift from family needs to be acknowledged.) 

9. Thou shall not change bank accounts. 

10. Thou shall not co-sign a loan for anyone.

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