Looking to buy a home?

    Excellent: 781-850

Good: 661-780

Fair: 601-660

Poor: 500-600

Very Poor: 300-499

There are apps that offer free credit scores such as Credit Karma and Credit Sesame.

You can also obtain your score and get a detailed credit history report by visiting:

www.equifax.com

www.experian.com

www.transunion.com

   You can contact each credit bureau for any potential disputes and request them to be removed.

Pay off debtors in full. I recommend starting with the creditors with the least amount of debt owed, working your way up to those with larger debts.

Pay your debt on time.

If you can, pay for things with cash rather than a credit card.

Don’t apply to finance anything until after closing.

 Any real estate agent cannot stress this enough. A home inspection benefits both the buyer and the seller. It will help to identify defects, major or minor, (faulty wiring, mold, roof etc.) This helps to make an informed buying decision or adjust the sales price accordingly. This will also allow the seller to remedy the now known defects prior to closing.

  Purchasing a home is one of the most important investments you will make.  Finding the right one is a big decision.  Do your research.  Know the area.  Map the commute to areas of interest (entertainment, restaurants, work, etc.).  If education is a factor in this decision as well, research the zoned schools.

  Sometimes, home warranties are offered by the seller.  However, in the case it may not, consider purchasing one.  You may find them to be fairly inexpensive and will save a lot of financial hassle should something major break down (a/c, water heater, dishwasher etc.)