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Step 1
Don’t make any late payments - Late payments hurt your credit score for up to 24 months in most cases, sometimes even longer.
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Step 2
Avoid bankruptcies and judgments - This is obvious. These are very difficult to remove and stay on your credit report for 10 years.
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Step 3
Have only 2 major credit cards (Visa, MC, Amex) - Having too much credit is a problem that although doesn't appear to be detrimental, actually figures in to your credit score negatively.
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Step 4
Have only 2 store or gas credit cards - Reasons as above, however you need a diversity of credit to reach the highest score possibly.
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Step 5
Keep credit card balances to 15% or less - Very important. Having your credit cards maxed out is a negative factor towards credit scoring. It has been found that balances at 15% or below are best case for figuring credit score.
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Step 6
Be a homeowner and have a mortgage - This shows stability and a long credit history is associated with a mortgage. Having a long credit history is very important.









Comments
ladonnaball said
on 1/20/2009 Very good article - I have alot of exp working with clients that file bankruptcy. In most cases they are forced into it from wage garnishments and liens and things! But good advise to those starting out!
goodguy50 said
on 10/15/2008 but what if my credit score is to low to get approved for any credit card but first premier bank
kgc1 said
on 4/12/2008 Mortgage companies and lenders require 3 lines of credit with 2 years history at a minimum. One line needs to be rent or a mortgage account. One should be an auto laon. The high credit compared to balances is a big factor as is down payment or LTV (Loan to Value). It tells the affordability story. Can the borrower make the payments? If so, how long will the borrower make the payments? Is the mortgagor managing credit effectively. I was talking with Premier Brokers the other day. They sell health and auto insurance policies in Virginia. We discussed how it's a good idea to get your different lines of insurance from one source. Premier Brokers will provide fast reliable insurance quotes for both auto policies and health plans. Their service is outstanding.
Getting insurance from one source can save you money. Insurance companies will consider credit score, same as mortgage lenders do, so
only1special1 said
on 3/24/2008 Good advice!
kgc1 said
on 3/18/2008 The easy way is to get the self help program..800 Credit score Program from 800 Credit Organization. The website is www.800credit.org.