Recent changes set forth by the government have lead many home owners to apply for refinancing to get lower, set interest rates. Many homeowners will benefit with a more affordable mortgage payment; however, applicants with less-than-stellar credit may be refused refinancing that would make a mortgage more affordable. For these consumers, it is recommended to begin credit repair as soon as possible–while avoiding the following:
Avoid using credit cards to make everyday purchases like food, clothing, and gas. Substituting credit for cash quickly leads to debt. Plus, having a large percentage of debt on a balance can lower a credit score, causing lenders to doubt the applicant’s credit worthiness. (If you already have low credit scores, don’t despair–credit history repair is possible for diligent consumers.)
Avoid paying only the minimum required. Making minimum payments extends the length of time you owe debt, plus it results in higher monthly payments due to the interest rate and growing balance. Pay debts off more quickly and cheaply by paying as much as possible on the outstanding balance each month.
Avoid using a credit card to buy things you can’t afford. If you can’t afford a purchase today, chances are you won’t be able to afford it tomorrow, or even next month. Many consumers are now in need of credit repair after foreclosure because they got a mortgage they thought they would be able to afford after a few years of pay raises and rising home values–but instead, unemployment rates and decreasing housing prices have had the opposite effect. Buy only what you can afford.
The sooner you resume habits that help lenders recognize you as a responsible borrower, the more apt you are to receive loans at affordable rates. If you need professional advice or assistance for repairing credit report ratings, go with a company like Vitesse Financial; long-standing companies like this one can help get consumers on the right track.