As part of the loan application process, virtually all lenders
will want to see a copy of your credit report. The report will list all your long-term
debts (credit cards, mortgage payments, automobile and student loans, etc), as well as
your payment history. If you don't have a copy of your credit report, most lenders will
generally require you to pay for a copy when they process your loan application.
However, most real estate experts agree that it is a good idea to obtain a copy of your
credit report several months before you apply for a loan. This is so you have a chance to
resolve any problems with your credit before your bank sees it. U.S. Federal law ensures
that you have access to your credit report, which may be obtained from your local credit
bureau or any of several national firms that specialize in credit reports.
Late payments
For most people, problems with their credit report are likely related to late payments on
a debt. If you were late one month in paying off your credit card, but otherwise have a
good payment history, chances are most lenders won't be too concerned. But if you have a
history of late payments you'll need to document the reasons why. A slow payment history
won't necessarily get you turned down for a loan, but you may have to pay a higher rate of
interest or otherwise prove to the lender that you can repay your loan in a timely
fashion.
Errors on your credit report
Many people are surprised to learn that credit reports can often contains errors or
inaccurate information. If this is the case with your credit report, you'll need to
contact the reporting agency or creditor to have the problem resolved. This can sometimes
be a slow process, so make sure to give yourself time to clear up the mistake.
Bankruptcies and foreclosures
There's no getting around it, a bankruptcy on your credit report is not a good thing. But
that doesn't mean you still can't obtain a loan. Even though a bankruptcy may stay on your
credit report for seven to ten years, lenders will often consider the circumstances
surrounding a bankruptcy (family illness, injury, etc.). Moreover, if you have
reestablished good credit since the bankruptcy, a lender will be more inclined to approve
your application |
