How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

Your credit score plays a big role in whether you qualify for a mortgage and what interest rate you’ll receive. A higher score can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan, while a lower score may limit your options or result in higher payments. If you’re planning to buy a home in Camarillo or anywhere in Ventura County, now is the perfect time to focus on improving your credit.

At Loan Production Office in Camarillo, we work with borrowers every day to help them prepare for a successful mortgage application. Here are some practical steps you can take to raise your credit score before applying.

1. Check Your Credit Report

Start by pulling your free credit report from the three major bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Review it carefully for errors such as accounts that don’t belong to you, incorrect payment histories, or outdated information. Disputing and correcting these mistakes can give your score an immediate boost.

2. Pay Bills on Time

Payment history makes up the largest portion of your credit score. Even one missed payment can cause a noticeable drop. Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders to ensure you never miss due dates for credit cards, car loans, or utilities.

3. Reduce Credit Card Balances

Your credit utilization ratio—the amount of credit you’re using compared to your limits—is another major factor. Aim to keep balances below 30% of your available credit, and ideally lower than 10%. Paying down high balances not only improves your score but also shows lenders you manage credit responsibly.

4. Avoid Opening New Accounts

While it may be tempting to open new credit cards or retail accounts, doing so right before applying for a mortgage can hurt your score. Each new account triggers a “hard inquiry,” and multiple inquiries in a short time can raise red flags. Focus on managing your current accounts instead.

5. Keep Older Accounts Open

Length of credit history also matters. Closing old credit cards can shorten your average account age and reduce your overall available credit. Unless an old account has high fees, consider keeping it open to support your score.

6. Work with a Loan Professional

Improving your credit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Loan Production Office in Camarillo, we guide clients through the entire home loan process, including credit preparation. We’ll review your financial picture, explain how different factors affect your score, and help you take the right steps toward qualifying for the best mortgage possible.

Your credit score is more than just a number—it’s the key to opening doors to better loan options and more affordable payments. By taking action now, you’ll be better prepared when it’s time to apply for your mortgage.

If you’re thinking about buying a home or refinancing in Camarillo, let Loan Production Office help you get credit-ready. Contact us today to start the conversation and move one step closer to your dream home.

Loan Production Office
www.LoanProductionOffice.com