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Albert Rodriguez, Equity Union Real EstatePhone: (661) 993-5831
Email: [email protected]

Should you pay off your credit card before your mortgage closing date?

by Albert Rodriguez 07/15/2024

Many potential homeowners wonder about the benefits of paying off a credit card before their new mortgage closing date. While paying off debt before applying for a loan is generally a good idea, there are other ways your credit can affect your mortgage approval and terms.

Here is some basic information to know about credit card debt and a mortgage:

How new credit affects potential mortgage approval

Taking out new credit, whether it's opening a new card or retailer-specific line of credit, can negatively affect your credit score. While the damage might be temporary, timing is everything - increasing your credit limit and debt to income ratio before applying for a loan may show mortgage lenders you're too much of a risk.

Closing an existing credit card can also impact your credit score. Overall, most mortgage lenders prefer a stable, even credit history without any major, recent changes.

What credit score do I need to purchase a home?

The minimum credit score requirement for a mortgage depends a bit on the type of loan you get. For example, conventional loans not backed by government programs require a score of at least 620. While it's possible to get approval with a lower credit score, you may end up with a much higher interest rate and monthly mortgage payments.

Both FHA and VA loans offer more flexibility when it comes to credit report requirements. A government loan may only require a score of 580. However, these can come with higher interest rates as a consequence.

How long after buying a house can you use your credit?

If you want to open a new credit card, experts recommend waiting one full business day after closing at the very least. However, it's important to consider the lasting effect on your credit report. While your score can decrease quickly, it can take a long time to build back up again. Keep this in mind when making credit card account decisions after closing on a home purchase.

About the Author
Author

Albert Rodriguez

 

The Few... The Proud... The Best That Real Estate Has to Offer...

First Albert would like to thank you for the opportunity to offer his services.

Albert originally from New York City enlisted to the U.S Marine Corps from 1992 to 2004 receiving the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal Combat Valor serving in the Iraq War and earn a Bachelor Degree in Business Administration from University of Hawaii. Started getting involved in the Real Estate business from 2004 to present as a full time agent. Albert have found home owners and buyers really want two things from their REALTOR®, Executive Service and Results....

Albert specializes in the Los Angeles County, Ventura County and Orange County area and licensed in California. His services include being bilingual in Spanish, making it a point to keep his clients well informed at all time.

Albert vision of commitment is based on hard work, tireless determination, and a genuine love of helping people reach their goals with a successful tenure in the real estate industry. Albert know by sharing a strong work ethic, a tireless drive to succeed and a dedication to achieving goals, that anything in life is possible. For Albert, it is a Matter of Duty.

Albert's skills are Excellent Communication, Great Analytical, Critical Thinking ( thinking outside the box), Problem Solving Abilities, Strong Time Management, Organizational, Public Speaking, Negotiator, Team Player, Technology User.

That way, when you do meet, Albert can place his full concentration on your special needs and what's most important to you and your family. Together you and Albert will work as a team.

Albert is really looking forward to the very special opportunity to serve you in your Real Estate needs.

When the time comes for your next Real Estate decision, give Albert a call for a FREE consultation. You'll be glad you did.

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