Your credit score is more than just a number—it’s the key to unlocking financial opportunities. A higher score can help you qualify for lower interest rates, better loan terms, and even same-day approvals with lenders like Agree Financial.If your score isn’t where you want it to be, don’t worry—improving it is possible. Here are seven practical steps to get started:

1. Check Your Credit Report Regularly
Knowing where you stand is the first step. You’re entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus once a year. Review them carefully for errors, such as incorrect balances or accounts that don’t belong to you. Disputing these inaccuracies can give your score an immediate boost.

2. Pay On Time, Every Time
Payment history makes up 35% of your credit score. Even one late payment can have a negative impact. Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure your bills—credit cards, loans, utilities—are always on time.

3. Lower Your Credit Utilization
Try to keep your credit card balances below 30% of your available credit. For example, if your limit is $1,000, aim to keep your balance under $300. Paying down balances (instead of only making minimum payments) helps improve your score faster.

4. Don’t Close Old Accounts
Length of credit history matters. Keeping older accounts open—even if you don’t use them frequently—shows lenders that you can manage credit responsibly over time.

5. Avoid Too Many Hard Inquiries
Each time you apply for credit, lenders run a hard inquiry that can slightly lower your score. Be selective and look for lenders that offer soft inquiries for pre-approval (like Agree Financial), so you can explore options without hurting your credit.

6. Mix Up Your Credit
A healthy mix of credit types—such as credit cards, auto loans, and personal loans—can improve your score. It demonstrates that you’re able to handle different kinds of credit responsibly.

7. Consider a Personal Loan to Consolidate Debt
If you’re juggling multiple balances, consolidating them into one personal loan with a lower APR can help reduce your utilization and simplify your payments. Over time, this responsible credit use can support your score growth.

Improving your credit score doesn’t happen overnight, but consistent good habits will pay off. Start small—make payments on time, lower your balances, and be mindful of how often you apply for new credit.
At Agree Financial, we make the process easier with loans designed around you—no hard inquiry for pre-approval, no hidden fees, and same-day funding. Ready to take the next step in building your credit? Get pre-approved today