Mortgage Wellness
Financial health isn't about how much you make; it's about how you manage what you have. "Mortgage Wellness" is our philosophy of staying ready for your next big move.
The Real Problem
Most people only think about their credit when they are ready to buy. By then, it's often too late to fix errors or optimize scores. Wellness is a year-round habit.
The Expert Advice
Keep your credit card balances below 10% of their limits. Never close old accounts—even if you don't use them. Your credit "age" is one of the most important factors in your rate.
Credit Monitoring
Don't rely on Credit Karma. Use a service that shows you your actual mortgage scores (FICO 2, 4, and 5).
DTI Management
Before you buy that new car, check how much it will reduce your home buying power. A $500 car payment can reduce your mortgage capacity by $80k+.
Emergency Reserves
Lenders love to see "reserves." Aim for 6 months of mortgage payments in a liquid savings account.
Wellness Decision Framework
The 10/30 Rule
Keep individual card usage under 10%, and total usage under 30%. This is the "sweet spot" for high scores.
The "No New Credit" Window
Avoid opening any new accounts or having hard inquiries within 6 months of a planned home purchase.