Worried about Your FICO Score? 4 Easy Strategies to Fix It Up

Worried about Your FICO Score? 4 Easy Strategies to Fix It UpIf you’re worried about your bad credit, you’ll want to do everything in your power to improve your rating as quickly as possible – especially if you have a major purchase coming up. Improving your credit rating can give you access to better interest rates on mortgages or even help you to get that job you’re after.

IMPORTANT! If you are currently involved in a home loan transaction, speak with your trusted real estate advisor before taking any action regarding your credit!

So how can you boost your FICO score quickly and easily? Here’s what you need to know.

Get Your Credit Report And Dispute Any Errors

Credit reporting agencies don’t always keep 100% perfect records, and there’s a good chance that your credit report contains at least one error. One recent FTC study found that 25% of consumers have an error on their credit report, and that in 5% of cases, the errors were actually severe enough to impact the loan terms that borrowers were able to negotiate.

You can get your annual credit report from all three credit reporting agencies for free. Carefully read over it. If you see any errors – if your name is misspelled, if they have the wrong address on file, or if there are late or unpaid charges that you didn’t make – you can dispute the items in question.

Still Overdue? Negotiate Payment Terms With Your Creditors

If you’re overdue on a payment, it will weigh heavily on your credit score. As your payment history makes up a full 35% of your FICO score, this is one area where you’ll want to invest a great deal of time and effort.

Contact any creditors you owe money to and ask if you can negotiate your bill. The ideal outcome for you is to have the creditor report your debt as paid in full, so see if you can secure that promise in writing in exchange for an accelerated payment schedule.

Try Maintaining A Lower Utilization Ratio

Your utilization ratio refers to the amount of credit you use at any given time. If this number goes beyond 30 percent, you’ll start to see your credit score drop. Ideally, you should aim for a utilization ratio below 10 percent – this will prove to your lender that you can responsibly pay for the credit you use.

Have Recurring Bills? Automate Your Payments

Automating your monthly payments can be a great way to boost your credit score. Whether it’s your mortgage, your credit card, or your student loan, a pre-authorized monthly payment will ensure that everything gets paid on time and give you a great credit history.

Your FICO score is a number that will determine your eligibility for mortgages and other loans. These are general tips to help with your credit score and improve the overall reporting of your credit.

5064 E Peak View Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$624,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,141 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6650226
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
3BD 2.5BA 2141 SQ FT HOME WITH PRIVATE POOL IN GREAT LOCATION. LARGE BKYD THAT BACKS TO DESSERT WASH. TILE IN ALL WALK AREAS & CARPET THROUGHOUT.

24041 N 171st Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$624,995
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,890 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6684177
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come see this Julia dream home! Included features: an inviting covered entry; a convenient laundry; an elegant dining room leading onto a covered side porch; a spacious great room; a gourmet kitchen offering 42'' cabinets, quartz countertops, an extended center island, a butler's pantry and a walk-in pantry; a roomy nook with large center meet doors; an extended covered patio; a versatile flex room; an impressive primary suite showcasing extra storage in the bath and a generous walk-in closet; a study in lieu of a storage area; a 2-car garage and a single-car garage. This home also offers front yard landscaping and driveway pavers as well as ceiling fan prewiring, wood laminate and stone tile flooring and additional windows in select rooms. This is a must see!

21873 E Saddle Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$624,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731525
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The single-story Cassandra plan showcases an open layout with a great room with a multi-sliding glass door, a breakfast nook, a large gourmet kitchen and a 2-car garage. The primary suite is adjacent, and boasts a generous walk-in closet and an attached bath with a large walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms flank a full bath, and the nearby study.

24021 N 172nd Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$624,995
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,840 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732025
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home! Darius plan provides a sophisticated and accommodating plan for livability that checks all the boxes on your wish list. In addition to a lavish owner's suite—with a roomy walk-in closet and attached double-sink bath—this home includes a second owner's suite with an adjacent living room, perfect for multi-generational living. You'll also enjoy a 3-car garage, a study, a great room with a covered patio featuring a multi slide door to bring the outdoor living indoors. Inviting gourmet kitchen with a generous island, dining nook for all entertaining gatherings! Airy 10 ft ceilings ,desired jack and jill bathrooms and so much more! This home sits on an oversized cul-de-sac lot.

22717 E Lords Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$624,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,123 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761308
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
4 CAR SUPER GARAGE!!! Do not miss the opportunity to own our lovely Opal plan featuring 4 bedrooms, a Den and 3 baths, Modern Desert home Not only will you be impressed with the expansive garage, this N/S homesite has a double gate and is large enough to build a wonderful backyard Oasis. The gourmet kitchen has light grey shaker cabinetry with extended dining cabinets, sleek stainless steele hardware, quartz countertops, and a glitensing tile backsplash. Wood plank tile floors are in the main living areas with designer tile floors in the primary bath; and the primary bath features an oversized shower with tile surrounds. The Opal floor plan offers flexibility with a bedroom, bath, and den separate from the other rooms for a guest suite arrangement. This home offers room for everyone and plenty of storage with the oversized garage, expansive 10' ceilings, & 8' interior doors. Additional convenience features include an electric car charging package, garage sink, preplumb for a sink in the laundry, laundry room to the primary closet, and added LED ceiling lighting. Gather at the community pool, hottub, pickle-ball, BarBQ's, Ramadas, or neighborhood park in our lovely Madera Community. When you choose to venture out for dining and entertainment, there are several options with Queen Creek Market Place a few short miles away and the new Frontier Family Park that is almost complete.

20147 W Mulberry Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$624,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,397 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6678219
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's our Carmona sitting on a LARGE lot with over 12,300 sq. ft. and an 8' gate. 3 bedrooms, study, 2 baths, 2 car with storage area. 12'x8' sliding glass door that leads out to the extended covered patio. Stainless steel gas double oven appliance package with a 36'' cooktop and canopy hood. Sonoma Maple Painted ''Linen-off white'' cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers and pull out trash drawer. DT Quartz Evening Gray countertops with a stainless steel undermount single bowl sink. Upgrade flooring includes EMS Beaumont 7x24 Bosso tile in all areas of the home except beds/closets. Dual sinks at bath 2. Garage service door, stub out for future BBQ and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent . Thank you!

25931 N 23rd Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85085

$624,990
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,976 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758025
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the Peralta plan, offering 1,992 square feet of elegant living space with a charming Farmhouse exterior. As you step onto the pavers at the covered entry and into the home, the paint grade mission stair rail adds a touch of traditional craftsmanship while the 8' interior doors adorned with matte black door hardware. This home's kitchen and great room open up to a spacious outdoor space with a gas stub for BBQ, ensuring the possibilities of effortless outdoor entertaining. The heart of the home, the kitchen, features stainless steel GE appliances including an under-cabinet hood, a built-in gas cooktop with five burners, and a built-in wall oven and microwave with trim kit. The kitchen features white painted shaker cabinets featuring 42'' uppers and 3'' crown at the perimeter. The kitchen countertops are adorned with Della Terra slate grey quartz which are complimented by the Dal Tile - Brickworks 2x8 backsplash. A large single basin stainless steel sink with a Moen Spring kitchen faucet completes this chef's dream kitchen. All bathrooms and the kitchen feature two-tone black and champagne bronze cabinet pulls. Moen Gibson 8 widespread matte black premium finish faucets offer a beautiful contrast to the white cultured marble countertops with rectangular sinks. Throughout the downstairs and in bath 2 and the laundry upstairs, you'll find durable Dal Tile Hill House Natural 6x36 wood look tile, while the primary bathroom boasts AZ Tile Reside Matte Beige 12X24 tile. The primary bath also features an enlarged primary bath shower, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Moving upstairs, Shaw Kennfield carpet in the shade Ecru providing comfort and warmth. All flooring is elegantly trimmed with upgraded 4 ¼ baseboards. This home is complemented by a soft water loop located in the garage for added convenience. Union Park offers Tree-lined streets, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and a 5,500 sf recreation center with resort style pool an kiddie pool, shaded ramadas, parks, gathering areas, pickleball courts and basketball. Close to I-10, 101 and 303. Walking distance to restaurants, movies, entertainment and shopping. Don't miss your opportunity to own this beautifully designed new construction home where luxury meets functionality.

29403 N 31st Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$624,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,105 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771893
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ask about special financing with preferred lender. This single-level home showcases an attached private suite, which is comprised of a separate living space, kitchenette, bedroom and bathroom, ideal for multigenerational living. In the main home, the Great Room, kitchen and dining room are arranged among a convenient open floorplan, with sliding glass doors that lead to the covered patio. The owner's suite is situated at the back of the home, while two bedrooms are found off the foyer. Photos are renderings of a model home, not the actual home. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

26827 N 67th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$624,990 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Aloravita North Phase 3 Parcel 10, Peoria
Open House
$624,990
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6715116
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This home is now complete and ready to make it yours! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Barstown' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes Burlap Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 9' ceilings, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Interior photos of similar spec, options may vary**

3537 Plaza De La Rosa -- Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$624,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,412 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781271
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MUST SEE, WONT LAST LONG!! A beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath residence in La Terraza is now for sale! Boasting a stunning facade w/stone accents, low-care landscape, a 3 car garage, and RV gate, it's sure to be the home for you! Inside you will find a spacious semi-open floor plan w/elegant wood-look flooring, vaulted ceilings w/skylights, neutral palette, and a warm fireplace. The kitchen is equipped w/ample wood cabinetry, tile counters & backsplash, a pantry, built-in appliances, a breakfast nook w/a lovely bay window, and a breakfast bar. End your busy day in the primary bedroom, boasting a 3-way fireplace, a walk-in closet, and a full ensuite w/dual sinks. Don't forget about the cozy bonus room, ideal for a lounge or entertainment center! Feel safe in this beautiful gated community. Lastly, the wonderful backyard includes a covered patio, a convenient storage shed, artificial turf, a seating area w/a ramada, and a sparkling blue pool!

2204 E Kelly Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$624,990
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,793 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759517
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the gated community of Belrose, this stunning Gilbert home offers the ideal blend of style & comfort. Wood-look tile flooring with plush carpeting in all the right places, recessed lighting, & modern fixtures & design elements throughout. The bright, open kitchen boasts white cabinets, sleek stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, RO System, & a walk-in pantry. The spacious primary bedroom features an ensuite with walk-in shower & dual vanity. Enjoy AZ living in your backyard with a covered patio, pavers, & a dog run. Also included, a convenient doggy door, a 2-car garage with extra storage & water softener/whole house filtration system. Situated in an incredible central location, this home provides easy access to highways, top-rated schools, shopping, dining, & more!

12643 W Roanoke Avenue Avondale, AZ 85392

$624,970
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,494 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783118
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Rancho Santa Fe! This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence features a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a low-maintenance yard. You're greeted by a cozy living room with a soothing palette, plantation shutters, recessed lighting, and tile flooring. The family room has an inviting fireplace and double French doors leading to the backyard. The delightful eat-in kitchen comes with granite counters, crisp white cabinetry with crown moulding, a stone tile backsplash, SS appliances, a handy pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. The bright main bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings, plush carpeting, balcony access, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Venture out onto the balcony, which offers serene views of the surroundings. The enchanting resort-style backyard showcases a covered patio, a lovely gazebo, a built-in BBQ, an outdoor fireplace, a putting green for golf enthusiasts, and a relaxing spa and pool combo. Make this gem yours now!