Tips on How to Increase Your Credit Score

By Metcalf Mortgage

Your credit score plays a major role in your financial life — especially when it comes to buying a home or securing a mortgage with a favorable interest rate. At Metcalf Mortgage, we understand that improving your credit score can feel overwhelming, but with consistency and smart financial habits, meaningful progress is absolutely possible.

Here are some practical tips to help you strengthen your credit profile and increase your score over time.

1. Pay Your Bills on Time

Payment history makes up the largest portion of your credit score calculation. Even one missed payment can have a negative effect.
Tip: Set up automatic payments or calendar reminders to ensure all bills — including credit cards, loans, and utilities — are paid before the due date.

2. Keep Credit Card Balances Low

Your credit utilization ratio — the percentage of available credit you use — should ideally stay under 30%.
Example: If your credit card limit is $10,000, try to keep your balance below $3,000. Paying off your full balance each month is even better, as it shows lenders you can manage credit responsibly.

3. Don’t Open Too Many Accounts at Once

While it’s good to have a mix of credit types (like credit cards, car loans, or a mortgage), applying for too many new accounts within a short period can lower your score temporarily. Each new inquiry can slightly reduce your score and may signal financial risk to lenders.

4. Keep Old Accounts Open

The length of your credit history also affects your score. Keeping older accounts open (even with zero balances) helps maintain a longer average credit age, which can work in your favor.

5. Review Your Credit Report Regularly

Mistakes do happen — and an error on your credit report can unfairly lower your score. You’re entitled to a free annual credit report from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at annualcreditreport.com. Review your reports for inaccuracies and dispute any errors you find.

6. Diversify Your Credit Mix

Lenders like to see that you can handle different types of credit responsibly. Having both installment loans (like auto or student loans) and revolving credit (like credit cards) can positively influence your score — as long as you manage them well.

7. Stay Patient and Consistent

Improving your credit score is a gradual process. Responsible behaviors today can lead to stronger credit standing in the months and years ahead. Small, consistent financial decisions make a big difference over time.

How Metcalf Mortgage Can Help

At Metcalf Mortgage, we believe that understanding your credit is the first step toward achieving homeownership. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way — from credit education to finding the right mortgage solution for your financial goals.

If you’re ready to take your next step toward homeownership, contact us today at cory@princetonmtg.com or click the button below!

Hey! My name is Cory and I’m a mortgage broker with years of experience in the industry, committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of home financing. My goal is to provide personalized solutions tailored to each client's unique financial situation and goals. I understand that securing a mortgage is a significant milestone, and I strive to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. With a keen understanding of the market and a network of reliable lending partners, I work diligently to find the best options available for my clients.

Metcalf Mortgage — Helping you build financial strength, one step (and one credit point) at a time.