Your credit score is one of the biggest factors in whether you qualify for a mortgage and what rate you get. A stronger score can mean a lower payment and thousands saved over the life of your loan. The good news is you have more control over your credit than most people realize, and small changes made a few months before you apply can make a real difference.
Below are trustworthy resources you can use for free. If you would rather have someone look at your situation and tell you where you stand, call us at (818) 999-6070. We will review your credit with you and lay out a realistic plan to get you mortgage-ready.
We are happy to help our clients with any questions or requests regarding credit. Here are some resources for you:
Before We Run Your Credit
Applying for a mortgage involves a credit pull, and unfortunately, that inquiry can trigger unsolicited offers and calls from credit card companies, insurance providers, and other lenders. The good news: you can take simple steps to protect your privacy before we order your report. We recommend completing these steps at least 5 days before your credit pull, if your timeline allows.
Opt Out of Prescreened Offers
Visit OptOutPrescreen.com or call 1-888-567-8688. This removes your name from lists sold by Equifax, Experian, Innovis, and TransUnion for mortgage trigger leads, credit card offers, and insurance offers. You can choose a 5-year or lifetime opt-out, and it typically becomes effective within 5 days.
Register Your Phone Numbers
Visit DoNotCall.gov. Register up to three phone numbers to reduce legitimate telemarketing calls. While it cannot prevent every unwanted or illegal call, it significantly reduces solicitations from participating companies.
Optional: Reduce Direct Mail
Visit DMAchoice.org to opt out of marketing mail and telephone solicitations from participating companies in the Direct Marketing Association.
A Note on Timing
If your pre-approval or transaction is time-sensitive, contact us before delaying your credit pull. These opt-out services are an important privacy step, but they do not guarantee that every solicitation will stop. Also, please provide CHS with your actual phone number and email address. We do not recommend replacing your information with our office number simply to avoid solicitations.
Download Our Handout
For a quick reference guide with all these steps, download our "Before We Run Your Credit" handout below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need to buy a home?
It depends on the loan type. FHA loans can be available to borrowers with scores in the low 600s, while conventional and jumbo loans generally reward higher scores with better rates. A less-than-perfect score does not automatically shut you out, so it is worth having your credit reviewed to see your real options.
How can I improve my credit score before applying for a mortgage?
The two factors that matter most are paying every bill on time and lowering how much of your available credit you use. Avoid opening or closing accounts right before you apply, and check your reports for errors. Even modest improvements can move you into a better rate tier.
How often should I check my credit report?
At least once a year, and more often when you are preparing to buy. You are entitled to free reports from all three major bureaus, and checking your own credit does not lower your score.
Does getting pre-approved hurt my credit?
It may lower your score by a few points temporarily, but the effect is small and short-lived. When you rate-shop with multiple lenders in a short window, the bureaus generally treat those inquiries as a single event.
Can California Home Solution help if my credit needs work?
Yes. We review your credit with you, explain what is affecting your score, and point you toward legitimate ways to strengthen it. As always, feel free to call us if you have any questions.
