Wednesday, March 18, 2009

The Solution Could Be Credit Restoration

By Jenice Q Zenbella

Now that the requirement for obtaining a mortgage are tighter than ever before, it's vital that you have a good credit score. You can repair your credit after making some financial missteps, but the best thing to do is to keep your credit in good shape from the word go. If you are a new credit account holder or already have along credit history, there are some things which can help you to maintain; or restore good credit.

One important thing to keep in mind is that your payment history makes up about 35% of your credit score. Your credit report lists the last seven years of activity, but it is the last 2 years which matters the most when a lender is trying to determine your credit worthiness. How late your payments are also factors in. While a payment which is 30 days overdue is one thing and is seen as relatively minor, payments delinquent for more than 90 days are a serious problem. Remember, it's easier to keep your credit in good shape than it is to repair it.

The best thing to do is to have different types of accounts and manage them all responsible. You should have a credit card which you keep a very small balance on (or keep paid off every month), along with an installment loan such as a car loan. If possible, you should have a mortgage too. Having several different types of accounts which you are managing well tells creditors that you are a good risk.

Never apply for credit which you don't really need. You can harm your credit score y opening too many accounts or making too many inquiries. When you open these unnecessary accounts, you'll also be tempted to use them ? this can open a whole new can of worms. Avoid needing credit restoration by resisting the temptation to open accounts you don't need.

Get a copy of your credit report and look over it to make sure that everything listed on your report is accurate. If a credit bureau can't demonstrate that an account or debt on your report is actually yours, you can request that it be removed. Any small open debts on your report should simply be paid off. Any larger debts may need to be settled with the creditor.

If there are larger amounts, get in touch with the creditor and try to make a settlement with them. They will often take as much as half of the balance off if you are willing to work with them to repay the debt. While this settlement will still show on your credit report, it's a lot better than having a debt on your report.

Even if you play by all the rules, things will happen ? you may still find your credit being damaged due to factors beyond your control. Don't let it get you down. You can repair your credit; just remember that credit restoration can take time. If you keep your eyes on your goal, you will be able to repair your credit.

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