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7 Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

  • Writer: Dustin Grenier
    Dustin Grenier
  • Sep 24
  • 2 min read

Updated: Nov 20

Buying a home in Wisconsin soon? Whether you're looking in Milwaukee, Madison, or anywhere in between, your credit score can make or break the mortgage deal you get.
Before you apply, take a little time to boost your score,  it could save you thousands. Here are 7 smart, simple ways to get your credit mortgage-ready.


1. Pay Your Bills On Time, Every Time

Your payment history makes up the biggest part of your credit score. Late payments or missed payments can really hurt. For first time homebuyer Wisconsin programs, showing consistent payments strengthens your case.

2. Reduce Credit Card Balances

Keep credit usage (credit utilization) below about 30% of your limits. If possible, reduce even more. A lower utilization ratio helps improve your score fast.

3. Check Your Credit Report for Errors

Go to AnnualCreditReport.com to request your free reports from Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. If you spot any errors, dispute them quickly- fixing even one mistake could improve your score.
→ Contact Team DG if you need help reviewing your report.

4. Don’t Open Lots of New Accounts

Every time you open a new credit card or loan, it can trigger a “hard inquiry,” which can slightly drop your score. Before you apply for a mortgage, avoid opening new lines of credit or loans, except what’s absolutely necessary.

5. Keep Old Accounts Open

Length of credit history matters. Even if you're not using an old card much, keeping it open helps show a longer credit history, which lenders like. It helps for your conventional loans or FHA loan requirements.

6. Pay Down Debt, Especially High-Interest Debt

High balances hurt your credit and increase your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Lowering this can help you qualify for better mortgage rates in Wisconsin, especially for FHA loans or conventional mortgages.

7. Monitor Your Credit Regularly

Use tools like Credit Karma, Experian, or your credit card provider’s free score tracking. You’ll get alerts for changes, errors, or fraud- and stay on track for homeownership.



Why It Matters for Wisconsin Homebuyers


  • Even a few points can mean lower monthly payments or reducing how much you pay over 30 years.
  • With current mortgage rates in Wisconsin, a higher credit score helps you qualify for better rates.
  • If you are a first time homebuyer Wisconsin, strong credit can help you access first time buyer programs or downpayment assistance Wisconsin more easily.

If you’re ready to see what your credit looks like and how it could affect your mortgage rate, Team DG can help.
  • Check your credit + pre‑approval
  • Learn more about FHA loan requirements & conventional loan options
  • Get a personalized plan for improving your credit

Sources & References
  • How to improve your credit score before getting a mortgage — Bankrate Bankrate
  • Equifax: How to get your credit ready for a mortgage U.S. Bank+1
  • FHA loan credit score requirements in Wisconsin (credit score thresholds & down payment info) — New American Funding, Griffin Funding newamericanfunding.com+2Griffin Funding+2
  • Experian: Credit‑score advice and building credit for home buying Experian

 
 
 

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