Seven ways to keep your credit score from derailing your mortgage application

A mortgage offer may feel like the finish line – but for some buyers, it’s not over yet. lender often Re-run credit and affordability checks Before completion, especially if there is a long gap or any changes to the deal. New borrowing, rising balance or even a missed mobile payment may prompt a last-minute reconsideration.

New research from HSBC shows that almost a third (29 per cent) of adults have never got themselves tested credit scoreAnd more than one in four (26 percent) do not understand how it is calculated. That confusion, says Carl Watchorn, head of customer proposition at HSBC UK, “means many people are missing out on significant savings without realising.”

But experts say the bigger issue is that buyers focus too much on the number rather than the data behind it.

“Since credit agencies have simplified the score, people become obsessed with it,” says finance expert Funmi Olufunwa. “What matters more is that the file is accurate. It’s the lender who decides whether you’re a good bet, not Experian or Equifax.”

Here are seven ways to secure your mortgage offer.

1. Check all three credit files – quickly

Lenders use different credit agencies, and their data may differ.

“Most lenders will only use one,” says Ying Tan, CEO of broker Habito. “We have seen missing data – such as payday loans not showing up – resulting in changes to the product after submission.”

Get your full reports from Experian, Equifax and TransUnion for free at least six months before you apply. Check for errors in your name or address, old financial links and any omissions or county court judgments (CCJ).

2. Fix Errors and Add References

If you find a mistake, contact both the lender and the credit reference agency to correct it.

This process may take several weeks, so act quickly.

You can also add a brief “Correction Notice” to explain the disputed entries, for example: “This missed payment is under review.” Lenders must read these notes when evaluating applications.

3. Take fast action on CCJ

County court judgments can seriously damage your credit.

But if you repay the entire loan within a month, you can apply for removal of CCJ.

“People often don’t realize this window exists,” says Olufunwa. “If you don’t check your file, you won’t even know the CCJ is there – and you miss the chance to fix it.”

4. Avoid new borrowing – even 0% or buy-now-pay-later deals

It is tempting to order furniture or use new credit Waiting to be transferred, but it’s risky.

“It is not unusual for lenders to re-run the check before it has been completed,” says Nicholas Mendes, head of marketing at broker John Charcoal.

“If you take out a new loan, your balance increases or your payment behavior changes, the lender may modify the terms – or even withdraw the offer.”

Hold off on large purchases until they’re complete and keep your balance stable.

5. Keep payments clean

Late payments are one of the most avoidable red flags. “We often see issues related to utility or mobile bills, especially when people do manual transfers,” says Tan. “Even small administrative errors can push borrowers into expensive specialist deals.”

Set direct debits to at least the minimum payment on each account.

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6. Build a Track Record – and Organize the Links

Being “invisible” to lenders can be just as damaging as bad credit.

If you’ve never borrowed, consider a small credit card that you pay off every month to demonstrate good habits. Make sure you are on the voter list, which helps lenders verify identity.

Equally, remove old financial associations.

“I know someone who was still connected to her ex-husband seven years after the divorce,” says Olufunwa. “This can absolutely impact your mortgage opportunities.”

7. Notify your broker of any changes

If your job, income or finances change after you apply, don’t hide it.

“Transparency gives you options,” says Mendes. “If something changes, your broker can advise whether to delay, switch lenders or adjust the loan before the underwriter knows.”

David Hollingworth, Associate Director of L&C mortgageSays: “A mortgage offer should be binding once issued, but if circumstances change – such as job loss or a large increase in debt – lenders may need to double-check. This isn’t common, but it can happen.”

safest course

Mortgage offers are not suddenly revoked, but they may unravel if your finances change.

The safest approach is to get your credit house in order early, keep it stable, and communicate clearly.

Mendes says: “Avoid new credit, pay everything on time and don’t rock the boat before completion. Once you’ve got the keys, you can reconsider the rest.”

A little hard work now can save your mortgage later, and turn that offer into a home.

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