Looking to you experts for help- Stagnant Score and 4 points away from non-pmi rate

[Anonymous]

I have always done my best to manage finances carefuly. While going through seperation in 2016 a few payments were missed due to my ex being spiteful. Fast foward to now: no late or high utilization or new accounts since that time,,,however my score has hovered in the mid 600' for over 3 years. I am currently house shopping and my middle score is 4 points away from qualifying for a non pmi, 3% down mortgage and great interest rate given the current rates. I have 3 months to improve my score (new construction) Here is my profile:

2016- 3 collections accounts from Medical Data Systems. FULLY paid in 2016

2016- 1 30 day late from Macys. I attempted a GW howevet was denied. The late balance was $7...grr!

2016- six 30 day lates on GM auto loan. I havent attemped a G W because of the amount of lates that year.

2016- 8 90 day lates for student loan.

2016- 1 30 day late for Cap one credit card

Additional: I only have 1 credit card, 1 store card, 1 auto loan and my student loans- all in good standing/low utilization since 2016.

As you can see, 2016 was a rollercoaster due to seperation/divorce but on bright side, the other side of divorce has been a refreshing new start for me and my children. If you all can provide your best tips for helping me improve my scores...I would be oh so greatful!! Have a great day!!!

[krielly]

curious as to what 3% down program offers no PMI? 

In addition, you state "low utilization". What percentage are you at?

[Anonymous]

It's a special program tied to my profession.

The two cards I own, I barely use so utilization is typically between 0-5% month after month.

[Anonymous]

You want to make sure that exactly one card reports a small positive balance (e.g. $15 -- higher is OK if it is < 8% of the card's credit limit) with all other cards reporting zero. 

Based on what you say above, there might be some months when both cards report $0 (bad for your score) and some months when both cards report a positive balance (less bad but not good for someone preparing for a mortgage).