Is your credit score holding you back from getting what you want? Why not make getting your credit 
report in shape part of your 2009 resolutions?
Here are a few tips to help you shape up your credit report for 2009:
1) Pay your bills on time. This is the best way to improve your scores, and it is never to late to start!
2) Keep credit card balances low. High outstanding debt can pull down your score.
3) Check your report for accuracy. It is possible there may be inaccurate information on your report.
4) Pay off debt rather than moving it around. Consolidating your credit card debt onto one card or spreading it over multiple cards will not improve your score in the long run. The most effective way to improve your score is by simply paying down the amount you owe.
5) Keep your credit cards ~ But manage them responsibly. In general, having credit cards and installment loans that you pay on time will raise your score. Someone who has no credit tends to have a lower score than someone who has managed credit cards responsibly.
6) Don't close an account to remove it from your record. Even closed accounts remain on your report, possibly for an indefinite period of time and still may be factored into your score.
Credit reports regularly are pulled by potential employers, landlords and lenders. Staying on top of what's on in your report will help ensure you get better rates on loans.
Remember, there are no quick fixes for improving your credit score. But you can raise your score over time by demonstrating that you consistently manage your finances responsibly.
If you are concerned about the information you found on your credit report, there are three credit agencies that can help. 1) TransUnion 2) Experian and 3) Equifax.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any other about getting your credit report in shape for 2009!
| About The Author Terrie Leighton is a Northern Nevada Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Reno – Sparks metro area; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice. |
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Authored By Terrie Leighton. January 2009. Terrie is a licensed real estate agent with Ferrari-Lund Real Estate. The information is this post is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed.
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REALTOR®
Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE)
Certified Default Resolution Specialist (CDRS)
Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource ~ Certified (SFR)
Ferrari-Lund Real Estate
775.846.5424
Good post you hit upon most of the basics.
I just want to pay my CC's off, sell my little cabin and live in an Airstream!
Morning Terrie,
Good advise. Credit can be a good thing is manages wisely. So many have gotten themselves into trouble by moving their debt around.
Joesph ~ Thank you.
Mike ~ I hope this will help some people get started!
Susie ~ I'll be right beside you!
Hi Hal ~ The moving debt around has always baffled me but i guess it can work if managed well.
Hi Terrie - Good advice. Maintaining good credit is important when the need comes up to secure a lone in order to purchase a home. I have had buyers who needed to take time to get their credit scores up before they could even begin to look for a home.
Well done Terrie!
It's blogs like this that make me love ActiveRain and the people on here.
I think everyone should forward this on to their clients just as an invaluable piece of information for them.
Jon ~ I have had clients as well who need to cleanup their credit before the home search starts! Hope this information is useful to you and your clients.
Craig ~ Thank you! I always appreciate the great information passed around ActiveRain as well. And it is always great to get encouraging feedback from members, and friends!
All great tips Terrie for not getting in over your head!
Thank you Bill.