Tips on How to Improve Your Credit Score

Hey folks, it's time to get real about your credit score. If you're anything like me, you probably don't pay much attention to it until it's time to apply for a loan or credit card. But did you know that your credit score can make or break your ability to obtain a mortgage loan?

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When you apply for a mortgage loan, lenders take a close look at your credit score and credit history. They want to know if you're a responsible borrower who will pay back the loan on time and in full. A good credit score can help you qualify for a mortgage loan with a lower interest rate and better terms, while a poor credit score can make it more difficult to get approved and result in higher interest rates and less favorable terms.

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In short, your credit score is one of the most important factors that lenders consider when deciding whether to approve you for a mortgage loan. By taking steps to improve your credit score, you can increase your chances of getting approved for a loan with better terms and save yourself thousands of dollars in the process.

1. Check your credit report regularly

This is a no-brainer, but it's worth repeating. Make sure to check your credit report for any errors or fraudulent activity. You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus every year, so take advantage of it.

2. Pay your bills on time

This one seems obvious, but it's worth emphasizing. Late payments can have a big impact on your credit score, so set up automatic payments or reminders to make sure you're always on time.

3. Lower your credit utilization ratio

Your credit utilization ratio is the amount of credit you're using compared to your credit limit. Aim to keep your utilization ratio under 30% to improve your score.

1. Check your credit report regularly

This is a no-brainer, but it's worth repeating. Make sure to check your credit report for any errors or fraudulent activity. You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus every year, so take advantage of it.

2. Pay your bills

on time

This one seems obvious, but it's worth emphasizing. Late payments can have a big impact on your credit score, so set up automatic payments or reminders to make sure you're always on time.

3. Lower your credit utilization ratio

Your credit utilization ratio is the amount of credit you're using compared to your credit limit. Aim to keep your utilization ratio under 30% to improve your score.

4. Increase your credit limit

If you're struggling to keep your credit utilization ratio low, consider asking for a credit limit increase. Just make sure not to use the extra credit as an excuse to spend more.

5. Diversify your credit

Having a mix of credit types (like a credit card, auto loan, and mortgage) can improve your credit score. But don't open new accounts just to add diversity - only take on credit that you actually need and can handle responsibly.

4. Increase your

credit limit

If you're struggling to keep your credit utilization ratio low, consider asking for a credit limit increase. Just make sure not to use the extra credit as an excuse to spend more.

5. Diversify your credit

Having a mix of credit types (like a credit card, auto loan, and mortgage) can improve your credit score. But don't open new accounts just to add diversity - only take on credit that you actually need and can handle responsibly.

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šŸ¢šŸ’° CRE Financing Is Thawing: Why Regional Banks Are Re-Entering the Market (Cautiously)

šŸ¦šŸ“ˆ Regional Banks Are Back in CRE Lending — What It Means for Smart Borrowers in 2026

January 28, 2026•2 min read

šŸ¦šŸ“ˆ Regional Banks Are Back in CRE Lending — What It Means for Smart Borrowers in 2026

šŸ¢šŸ’° CRE Financing Is Thawing: Why Regional Banks Are Re-Entering the Market (Cautiously)


Regional Banks Are Quietly Re-Entering CRE Lending — And the Math Finally Works Again

After nearly three years of retrenchment, regional banks are cautiously re-entering the commercial real estate (CRE) lending market. This shift marks a meaningful inflection point for borrowers who survived the post-2022 credit contraction and are now seeing refinancing and acquisition math improve as interest rates ease.

For commercial property owners, investors, and developers, this does not mean a return to loose underwriting. Instead, it signals a more disciplined, cash-flow-driven lending environment—one that rewards strong assets, conservative leverage, and realistic valuations.

Why Regional Banks Pulled Back After 2022

The Federal Reserve’s aggressive rate-hiking cycle fundamentally disrupted CRE lending economics. Higher capital costs, widening cap rates, and office-sector stress forced many banks to:

Ā·Reduce loan originations

Ā·Shrink CRE exposure

Ā·Prioritize balance-sheet preservation

As refinancing risk rose—particularly for office and highly leveraged multifamily assets—regional banks chose caution over growth.

What Changed in 2025–2026?

According to recent earnings calls, bank executives are seeing stabilization driven by:

Ā·Lower interest rates improving debt-service coverage

Ā·Tighter underwriting standards reducing downside risk

Ā·More conservative deal structures restoring lender confidence

Several institutions explicitly stated that ā€œthe math is starting to work again.ā€

Lenders including Regions Financial, First Horizon, KeyCorp, and PNC Financial reported early signs of CRE loan growth—particularly tied to refinancing activity in multifamily and industrial assets.

Meanwhile, M&T Bank and U.S. Bancorp emphasized slowing portfolio runoff, reduced office exposure, and improving credit quality.

What This Means for CRE Borrowers Today

For borrowers, this is not a green light to push leverage—it’s a window to restructure intelligently.

Regional banks are selectively lending where:

Ā·Cash flow is durable

Ā·Loan-to-value ratios are conservative

Ā·Assets align with lender concentration limits

Multifamily and industrial continue to lead, while office lending remains highly selective and location-specific.

Why Brokers Matter More Than Ever

As banks re-enter with discipline, deal positioning matters more than rate shopping. Borrowers who understand lender credit boxes—and can structure deals accordingly—are the ones getting funded.

At Medallion Funds, we’re seeing:

Ā·More regional bank term sheets

Ā·Better refinance proceeds on stabilized assets

Ā·Increased lender competition on strong deals

But only when underwriting assumptions are realistic and defensible.

The Bottom Line

Regional banks are no longer retreating—but they aren’t chasing volume either. This is a measured normalization, not a boom.

For prepared borrowers, this environment creates opportunity:

Ā·Refinance maturing debt

Ā·Reset capital stacks

Ā·Position assets for long-term stability

If you’re approaching a loan maturity or evaluating financing options in 2026, now is the time to reassess your strategy—before credit tightens again.


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Ā© 2023-2024 Bill Rapp, Medallion Funds LLC, Director of Capital Advisory



commercial real estate financing 2026regional banks CRE lendingmultifamily refinancing loansCRE refinance optionsregional bank commercial loansindustrial real estate lendingcommercial mortgage broker insightsCRE underwriting standardsMedallion Funds commercial lendingbank lending trends real estate
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Bill Rapp - Commercial & Residential Mortgage Broker

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a business owner with ambitious plans, securing the right financing is crucial. At Medallion Funds, we take the guesswork out of mortgages, offering a comprehensive suite of residential and commercial loan options to fit your unique needs. Looking for Your Dream Home? We understand the excitement and challenges of navigating the residential real estate market. Our experienced mortgage brokers will guide you through every step, from pre-qualification to closing. We offer a variety of loan programs to suit your financial situation, including: • Fixed-rate mortgages: Offering stability with predictable monthly payments. • Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs): Providing competitive rates for a set period. • FHA loans: Making homeownership accessible with lower down payments. • VA loans: Rewarding veterans with attractive rates and flexible terms. Investing in Your Business Future? Growth often requires capital, and we can help you unlock the potential of your commercial property. Our brokers specialize in a wide range of commercial loan options, including: • Purchase loans: Financing the acquisition of new buildings or land. • Construction loans: Facilitating the development of your project. • Refinance loans: Restructuring your existing mortgage for better terms. • SBA loans: Providing access to government-backed financing for qualified businesses. The Medallion Funds Difference: We go beyond simply finding a loan. We take the time to understand your goals and develop a personalized strategy. Here's what sets us apart: • Expertise: Our brokers have a deep understanding of both residential and commercial lending. • Competitive Rates: We leverage our strong lender relationships to secure the best possible terms. • Streamlined Process: We handle the paperwork, keeping you informed every step of the way. • Exceptional Service: We're committed to providing you with a positive and stress-free experience. Ready to Take the First Step? Contact Medallion Funds today for a free consultation. Let's discuss your financing needs and help you achieve your dreams!

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This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. Copyright Ā© 2021 | Medallion Funds


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Corporate Address : 2651 N. Green Valley Pkwy STE. 101 Henderson, NV 89014

Corporate NMLS NMLS # 1825831 | Company Website: https://medallionfunds.com/bill-rapp/

Copyright ©2021 | Mortgage Viking Team Licensed to Do Business | NMLS # 228246

This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without notice. All products are subject to credit and property approval. Other restrictions and limitations may apply

Corporate | NMLS ID NMLS # 1825831

Corporate Address : 2651 N. Green Valley Pkwy STE. 101 Henderson, NV 89014 https://medallionfunds.com/bill-rapp/