I am currently in the process of applying for a mortgage. We are getting our house built through Ryan Homes. I have about 3 cards that are considered "maxed out". I wanted to know if I pay these down to about 70-80% utilization, would I see a significant increase in score. I will also be paying off a installment loan with a $115 payment within the next 60 days. My mid score is currently a 634. I am attempting to get to 650-670 range by March. Any input is greatly appreciated.
Starting Score:TransUnion: 698 (12 FEB 2010), Equifax: 674 (12 FEB 2010)
jandj80 wrote:The installment loan might hurt you when you pay it off, cause if its been being paid for a long time, its helping your AAoA. I lost a few when we paid off a car loan that we had for 4+ years. If you can pull credit for approval prior to that showing closed I would do so.
This is incorrect. A positive account will stay on your CRAs for at least 10 years after it is closed.
getmycreditright wrote:If that installment loan is your only one, paying it off can adversely impact your score (credit mix purposes). To get points quick, paying down your credit cards will do the trick. Although you'd probably need to pay them down closer to 50% in order to see a sizeable score bump.
This is also incorrect....having a pd/closed installment is the same as an open installment for credit mix purposes.
