What is a Credit Score?
Your credit score is a record of your borrowing and repayment history, including credit cards, loans, and other f inance agreements. Lenders use this information to assess your reliability when considering applications for new loans or remortgages. A strong credit score can make the process smoother, while weaker scores can raise questions or even influence the rates you’re offered.
How Spending Choices Impact your Credit
Even seemingly small decisions can make a difference. Frequent use of credit cards or taking out multiple loans in a short period can signal higher
risk to lenders. On the other hand, consistently paying bills on time, keeping credit balances low, and avoiding unnecessary applications all help demonstrate financial responsibility. When you remortgage, lenders don’t just look at your credit history – they also consider recent activity.
Applying for several credit products close to your remortgage date can be a red flag. Equally, showing stable and responsible borrowing in the
months leading up to your application can improve your chances of securing a favourable deal.
Protecting your Credit before Remortgaging
• Check your credit report: Make sure all information is accurate and up to date. Contact one of the main credit reference agencies (Experian,
Equifax or TransUnion) to check your credit report.
• Avoid large new credit commitments: Delay taking out personal loans or additional costs close to your remortgage date.
• Pay bills on time: Regular, timely payments demonstrate reliability.
• Keep credit commitments to a minimum: Aim to use only a portion of your available credit, showing responsibility.
• 9-12 months: This is the ideal time before remortgaging to get on top of your credit score, making sure it’s in the strongest position.
Understanding how your credit behaviour affects your mortgage options is key to getting the best deal. By making thoughtful spending choices and monitoring your credit score, you can approach your remortgage with confidence. Get in touch today to increase your chances of securing a favourable outcome.
If you’d like to discuss the options available to you, contact your adviser.
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