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?

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.

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

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

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📊 Housing Affordability Crisis: Where Buyers Still Have a Chance 🏡

🏠 Where Homes Are (and Aren’t) Affordable in 2025 📉📈

Bill Rapp, Commercial Mortgage Broker

January 22, 2026•2 min read

🏠 Where Homes Are (and Aren’t) Affordable in 2025 📉📈

📊 Housing Affordability Crisis: Where Buyers Still Have a Chance 🏡

Where Americans Can’t Afford Homes—And Where Buyers Still Can

Most Americans cannot afford the homes currently for sale—and where you live matters more than ever.

U.S. housing affordability remains severely constrained. As of July 2025, more than 75% of homes on the market are unaffordable to households earning the national median income of roughly $80,000. Across the 34 largest metro areas, only 23.5% of listings meet standard affordability thresholds.

This isn’t just about mortgage rates. It is the combined effect of elevated home prices, limited housing supply, and uneven construction activity across regions.

📍 Where Homes Are Most Affordable

Affordability improves meaningfully in parts of the Midwest, Rust Belt, and select Southern markets where prices have grown more slowly and supply constraints are less severe.

Markets offering the strongest opportunities for middle-income buyers include:

·Pittsburgh – Approximately 55% of listings affordable

·St. Louis – Roughly 50% affordable

·Baltimore, Detroit, Cincinnati, Birmingham – Around 40% affordable

For buyers willing to be flexible on location—or open to relocating—these markets present realistic ownership paths with standard mortgage structures.

🚫 Where Homes Are Least Affordable

Coastal metros and high-growth Sun Belt cities remain largely inaccessible for median-income households.

Examples include:

·Miami – Just 0.4% of listings affordable

·Los Angeles – Fewer than 2% affordable

·San Diego – Also below 2%

In these markets, price growth has far outpaced income growth, and supply shortages continue to push affordability further out of reach—even for high-earning households.

🧮 Why the Math Doesn’t Work for Most Buyers

This analysis assumes:

·20% down payment

·6.8% 30-year fixed mortgage rate

·Housing costs capped at 30% of gross income

Under those assumptions, the median U.S. home price of $435,000 requires household income of roughly $113,000 per year—about $33,000 above the national median.

This gap explains why many qualified buyers feel “priced out” despite stable employment and strong credit.

🏗️ Supply Is the Real Constraint

Housing supply is diverging sharply by region:

·The South and parts of the West have added inventory through new construction, improving long-term affordability outlooks.

·The Northeast and Midwest remain 40%–60% below pre-pandemic inventory levels, keeping pressure on prices despite slower population growth.

Builders are adapting. Townhomes now account for 18% of single-family construction, nearly double their share a decade ago, making them one of the most important affordability levers for first-time buyers.

🧭 What This Means for Buyers

Even if mortgage rates decline, affordability will not meaningfully improve without sustained increases in housing supply—especially in job-rich, high-demand metros.

This is where mortgage strategy matters. Buyers who understand:

·Market-specific affordability

·Alternative loan structures

·First-time buyer and professional programs

will continue to win—even in constrained markets.

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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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🛠️ Renovation ROI Calculator 💰

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

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Tips on How to Improve Your Credit Score

1. Check your credit report regularly

2. Pay your bills on time

3. Lower your credit utilization ratio

1. Check your credit report regularly

2. Pay your bills

on time

3. Lower your credit utilization ratio

4. Increase your credit limit

5. Diversify your credit

4. Increase your

credit limit

5. Diversify your credit

Blogs

The Top 5 Mortgage Mistakes to Avoid

Mortgage Do and

Do not list