10/09/2026
Thinking about buying a home in the next year? Your credit file is doing more work than you realize.
Lenders look at your score, but they also look at your utilization, your payment history, and how long your accounts have been open. Before you talk to a lender, check three things: keep balances under 30 percent of your limits, keep every payment on time, and scan your reports for errors that could slow you down.
Financial Planning Month is a good time to get ahead of it instead of finding out at the loan desk. Want a professional look at where you stand? Your first analysis is free.