Your credit score glow-up: 5 simple steps to unlock your dream home

BY JEREMIE, CEO OF ATTAIN

BY JEREMIE, CEO OF ATTAIN

Dreaming of your first home but worried about your credit score? You’re not alone.

For many first-time homebuyers, your credit score might feel like a confusing mystery—one that stands between you and your dream home. But here’s the good news: improving your credit score doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little care and consistency, you can transform your credit and open the door to homeownership.

Here are five practical steps to help you achieve your credit score “glow-up” and get closer to your dream home:

1. Pay down small debts first

Think of your credit score as a reflection of your financial habits. One of the fastest ways to boost it is by tackling small debts first. Why? It’s easier to make noticeable progress on smaller balances, and those wins can motivate you to keep going.

Take Sarah, a prospective homebuyer we spoke with. She focused on paying off her $500 store card first. Within three months, her credit score jumped by 30 points! Small steps can lead to big results.

Tip: Start with debts that have the highest interest rates to save money in the long run.

2. Set up auto-pay

Missed payments are a credit score killer. But life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget a due date. That’s where auto-pay comes in.

By setting up automatic payments for at least the minimum amount due, you ensure that your credit history stays spotless. Plus, you’ll save yourself the stress of remembering payment deadlines.

Tip: Even with auto-pay, keep an eye on your account to make sure payments are processed correctly.

3. Keep your credit utilization under 30%

Your credit utilization ratio—the percentage of your available credit that you’re using—is a major factor in your credit score. If your credit limit is $10,000, try to keep your balance under $3,000. Think of it as a game where staying in the “green zone” boosts your score.

Did You Know? Keeping your credit utilization low can sometimes have a more immediate impact on your score than paying off debt entirely. It shows lenders that you manage credit responsibly.

4. Check your credit report for error

Credit reports aren’t perfect. In fact, errors are more common than you might think. Imagine losing points because of a mistake that isn’t even your fault!

Take the time to request a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion). Look for inaccuracies like accounts you don’t recognize or incorrect balances. If you spot an error, dispute it immediately.

Tip: Tools like AnnualCreditReport.com make it easy to get your report for free.

5. Avoid opening too many accounts

It might be tempting to apply for multiple credit cards or loans to build your credit, but this can backfire. Each application results in a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your score.

Instead, focus on managing your existing accounts well. Remember, more isn’t always better. Consistency and responsible use of credit are what matter most.

Tip: Space out new credit applications by at least six months to minimize the impact on your score.

Think of your credit as a garden

Improving your credit score is like planting a garden. It takes time, care, and attention, but the rewards are worth it. Each of these steps is a seed that helps your credit grow stronger and healthier. Before you know it, you’ll be walking through the doors of your dream home.

What’s Your ‘Credit Score Glow-Up’ Goal? Ready to take your first steps? If you’re looking for more tools and tips to make home-buying easier, download the Attain app today. Together, we’ll unlock the door to your dream home.