Planning ahead: Reviewing your credit score before applying can unlock better mortgage deals.
Thinking about applying for a mortgage? Before you do, there’s one important number you need to check: your credit score. A strong credit score can be the difference between being approved for a competitive mortgage, or being declined altogether. The good news? Even small improvements can lead to big savings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to improve your credit score before applying for a mortgage, and why it matters more than ever in 2025.
Why Does Your Credit Score Matter When Applying for a Mortgage?
Your credit score is a snapshot of your financial health. Lenders use it to assess how risky it would be to lend you money.
A higher score = lower perceived risk → better interest rates, more approval options
A lower score = higher risk → fewer deals or higher rates
In the UK, scores typically come from:
- Experian (0–999)
- Equifax (0–1000)
- TransUnion (0–710)
Tip: You don’t need a perfect score, but being in the “good” or “excellent” category gives you the best shot at mortgage approval and a competitive deal.
When Should You Start Improving Your Credit?
Ideally: 3–6 months before applying for a mortgage. Mortgage lenders often look at your financial behaviour over time, not just your current score. The earlier you start preparing, the more improvements will show in your credit report.
10 Proven Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying
Check Your Credit Reports (All 3 Agencies)
Visit:
- Checkmyfile.com (shows all 3)
- Or individually: Experian, Equifax, TransUnion
Look for:
- Errors (wrong addresses, missed payments that weren’t missed)
- Outdated info
- Duplicate accounts
Dispute anything inaccurate immediately.
Register on the Electoral Roll
Lenders use the electoral roll to verify your identity and stability. Make sure you’re registered at your current address. Check here: GOV.UK register to vote.
Keep Credit Card Balances Low
Keep balances below 30% of your credit limit. For example, if you have a £1,000 credit limit, aim to use no more than £300 at any time. Why? High utilisation = higher risk in a lender’s eyes.
Pay Bills On Time. Every Time.
Late payments seriously hurt your score. Set up direct debits or reminders to pay:
- Phone bills
- Utilities
- Credit cards
- Subscriptions
Even small missed payments (like £5) can impact your mortgage eligibility.
Avoid Taking Out New Credit Before You Apply
Each application triggers a “hard search” and temporarily lowers your score.
Avoid:
- Car finance
- Credit cards
- Buy now, pay later schemes
Reduce the Number of Hard Credit Searches
Too many recent searches can signal financial distress. If you need to shop around (for example, for a car loan), do it within a 14-day period to minimise score impact.
Keep Old Accounts Open (Even If You Don’t Use Them)
Credit history length is important. Closing old, positive accounts can reduce your average credit age. Keep older accounts open with zero balance to show long-term reliability.
Consider a Credit-Building Product
If you have little or no credit history, consider:
- A credit-builder credit card (use it for small purchases + pay in full)
- A credit builder loan
- Using LOQBOX or Experian Boost for UK-based credit support
Avoid Payday Loans
Even one payday loan on your credit history can be a red flag to mortgage lenders, even if you repay it on time.
Keep an Eye on Joint Accounts
If you’re financially linked to someone (e.g., joint account or loan), their credit behaviour can affect your score. If necessary, request a “financial disassociation” through the credit agencies.
Speak To A Mortgage Professional Toady
An experienced advisor (like Oportfolio) can review your credit situation, match you with lenders that suit your profile, prevent you from applying with lenders who might reject you based on credit. Speak with our team today.
