The credit market has been getting tighter over the last two years even since the real estate bububle. Banks are not issuing as many credit cards to people like they did five years ago. Credit card companies are decreasing people's credit line and/or shutting down the card without proper notificaiton. Many people are upset over this practice because now you are dealing with a person's credit score.
We have all been issued a three digit number which determines our credit worthiness. My grandmother told me to pay my bills on time and in full. That was wisdom to me. However, times have changed and abusing credit is a way of life. I would like to discuss the top 5 mistakes made when dealing with credit:
- CLOSE ESTABLISHED CREDIT CARDS-This will take away from a person's line of credit and the amount of months it has been open. One needs at least three great lines of credit with an established history of online payments. Closing great established lines of credit will decrease one's score according to my expert.
- Missing Payments-Many people are missing their mortgage payments while doing short sales and/or loan modifications. That drags the credit score down more than 100 points. Other people forget to pay a $25 payment on a credit card and now the credit score has dropped by 80 points. Make your payments on time and in full.
- High Balances-Experts state that people should not use more than 30-50% of available credit at all times to maintain a high score. Over 50% will bring the score down even by making montly payments on time. Pay down as much as possible to boost the credit score up.
- Settling Past Due Accounts-People settle for less than what is owed to credit card companies every day. However, many people realize that they will receive a 1099 at the end of the year for the difference. This is called a deficiency judgment and is considered income earned for that year. One can negotiate with the credit card company during the settlement talks. However, they will report it to the bureaus if not paid in full. This will stay on the credit report for 7 years.
- No Credit-People have been taught to pay cash for everything. That is great. However, one needs a credit score with history to obtain financing for a car or home. People have to bee taught more about credit and the power of leverage with a conservative background. Credit is part of our lives that cannot be ignored. No credit then a person will not have a credit score.
Conclusion:
We are heading into uncharted waters going forward in the next two years when it comes to real estate and the financial industry. However, I see these mistakes made by people on a weekly basis. Many times it is out of plan ignorance. They do not teach credit education in our school systems. We must continually educate our clients when it comes to credit and the importance of having and maintaining a high credit score to obtain conventional financing for purchasing a home.
Make the Call, Set the Plan, Do the Deal$!
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Credit awareness needs to start during the teen years.....it's very important for young people to realize the importance of a good credit rating....my children started their credit ratings in high school with a small car loan with parental co signing.....they paid and we made sure it was done in a very timely fashion....they all had a good credit rating in their teen years.
Great post!
Thanks for the rain
Hi Harry-
We are indeed headed into uncharted waters. I couldn't agree more that people need to get a grip on their credit cards and associated habits. there's a lot that can be done to make credit work FOR you.
--Sara in San Antonio
Wow-I really enjoyed your post today. Have a great weekend my friend.
I am always learning more and more about real estate when reading your posts. Thanks
Thank you for another great post when it comes to real estate. Great contribution today
I really enjoyed your post today. Keep them coming this way.