💳 Credit Score
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before a Mortgage Application
Your credit score is a key factor in mortgage applications. Lenders use it — alongside income and affordability checks — to decide whether to lend and at what rate. Here is how to prepare at least 6-12 months before applying.
Likely causes
- Missed or late payments on record
- High credit card balances
- Multiple recent credit applications
- Not registered on the electoral roll
- Errors on your credit file
Step-by-step fix
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1
Start preparing 12 months before applying
Most improvements take time. Give yourself at least 6-12 months to implement changes and let them show on your file.
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2
Register on the electoral roll immediately
gov.uk/register-to-vote — this is checked by almost every mortgage lender.
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3
Pay down credit card balances
Get utilisation below 25% across all cards. Mortgage lenders view high utilisation as a risk signal.
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4
Avoid any new credit applications for 6 months before applying
Each application creates a hard search. Multiple searches before a mortgage application raises concern for lenders.
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5
Check all three credit reports for errors
Correct any mistakes well in advance. Disputes can take 4-8 weeks to resolve.
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6
Use a whole-of-market mortgage broker
A good broker knows which lenders' criteria you are most likely to meet, helping you avoid unnecessary rejections. Always use an FCA-regulated broker.