Your credit score plays a major role in your ability to purchase a home — from the loan programs you qualify for to the interest rate you receive. The good news? Your credit score is absolutely something you can improve with the right steps and a bit of consistency.

Whether you're planning to buy a home in the next few months or simply want to strengthen your financial position, here are practical, proven ways to boost your credit score.

1. Know Your Current Score & What’s Inside Your Report

Before you can improve anything, you need to know where you stand.

Look for inaccuracies, outdated accounts, or anything that doesn’t belong. Disputing errors is one of the quickest ways to see a bump in your score.

2. Pay Bills on Time, Every Time

Payment history makes up 35% of your credit score.
Set reminders, enroll in autopay, or schedule payments ahead of time to avoid late fees or missed payments. Even one late payment can impact your score.

3. Lower Your Credit Utilization (The Fastest Score Booster!)

Credit utilization = the percentage of your available credit you’re using.
Aim to keep it below 30% — and ideally below 10% for optimal scoring.

Ways to lower utilization:

• Pay down balances early or twice per month
  
  
• Make a lump-sum payment before the statement closes
  
  
• Request a credit limit increase (but don’t spend the extra!)
  
  

Small changes here can raise your score within weeks.

4. Avoid Opening New Credit Lines

Every time you open a new credit card or loan, your score gets a temporary dip.
If you’re preparing to buy a home, avoid:

• Applying for new credit cards
  
  
• Financing a car
  
  
• Taking out personal loans
  
  

Your mortgage lender will thank you!

5. Keep Old Accounts Open

The longer your credit history, the stronger your score.
Unless there’s a fee you want to avoid, keep older cards open — even if you don’t use them often. Set a small recurring charge (like Netflix) to keep them active.

6. Pay Down High-Interest Debts First

Focus on debts that:

• Have the highest interest rates
  
  
• Are close to their credit limits
  
  
• Are revolving accounts (credit cards), not installment loans
  
  

This strategy reduces utilization and saves money long-term.

7. Settle or Resolve Past-Due Accounts

Collections, charge-offs, or past-due payments can seriously impact your score.
Work with creditors to:

• Bring accounts current
  
  
• Set up payment plans
  
  
• Negotiate settlements, if necessary
  
  

Many lenders now ignore paid collections — another quick path to improvement.

8. Don’t Close Accounts After Paying Them Off

It’s tempting to declutter your finances, but closing accounts reduces your available credit and shortens your credit history — which can drop your score.
Instead, leave them open and at a $0 balance.

9. Add Positive Payment History with Tools Like Experian Boost

Platforms like Experian Boost give you credit for paying:

• Phone bills
  
  
• Utility bills
  
  
• Streaming services
  
  

This typically helps people with thinner credit files or borderline scores.

10. Work With a Trusted Lender Early

One of the most valuable steps you can take is talking with a lender before you’re ready to buy.
They can:

• Review your credit report
  
  
• Identify the best steps to improve your score
  
  
• Give you your estimated purchase power
  
  
• Recommend the right loan programs
  
  

This ensures you’re making credit decisions that actually help you qualify for a mortgage.

Ready to Start Planning for Homeownership? We're Here to Help.

Improving your credit score doesn’t have to be overwhelming. McKillion Real Estate Group partners with trusted local lenders who can help you build a personalized plan, whether you’re ready to buy soon or simply preparing for the future.

If you'd like recommendations or want to talk about next steps, reach out anytime!