What is in this book for you? Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly common for information in credit reports to be considered in employment decisions, approving loans, auto and home insurance, getting credit cards, etc. Credit reports and scores play a major role in determining which mortgage product or loan you will qualify for and what rate you will be offered by your lender. This book was designed to help consumers understand what a credit report and a credit score is, how to establish or re-establish a good credit history, manage their credit reports and provides tips and tricks on how to improve their credit scores. In summary, this book provides answers to the following questions. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
What is a credit report? What is a credit score? What is a FICO score? Who are the major credit reporting agencies in the U.S? Why are credit scores so important? What is a credit report made of? What is a credit score made of? How can I improve my credit score? How much will a slightly bad credit score cost me? How much will an increase of 1% on an interest rate cost me? Are there other credit scoring companies? How do I access my credit reports and credit scores? How can I establish a good credit history? How can I re-establish or improve my credit scores? Where and who should I contact to correct an error on my credit report? What types of credit are available? What are my rights as a consumer?
This book also provides other useful information as follows: • • • • • • • • •
List of Do’s and Don’ts before applying for a loan List of Do’s and Don’ts after applying and before closing a mortgage loan List of Do’s and Don’ts after foreclosure, short-sale, bankruptcy, and other unfortunate events. Many examples of how to improve your credit scores, utilizing our tips and techniques Federal law: The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) Federal law: The Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act (FACTA) Federal law: Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B) Federal law: Fair Debt Collection Practices Act Texas Fair Debt Collection Practices Act