Check & Improve Your Credit Score

Check & Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

If you’re thinking about buying your first home, one of the most important steps you can take early on is to check and improve your credit score. It might not sound exciting — but it could be the difference between getting your dream home or being turned down for a mortgage.

In this guide, our team at LTC Mortgages explain how credit scores work, why they matter to mortgage lenders, and how you can check and improve your credit score before you apply.

Why Is Your Credit Score Important?

Your credit score gives lenders a snapshot of how reliable you are when it comes to borrowing money. Mortgage providers use it (alongside income, debt, and affordability checks) to decide whether to approve your application and what deals you’ll qualify for.

A better credit score can:

Improve your chances of mortgage approval
Give access to better interest rates
Increase the amount you can borrow

What Is a Good Credit Score in the UK?

There are three main credit reference agents in the UK: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Each one uses different scoring systems, so it’s helpful to check all three using a multi-agency tool like Check My File.

As a general guide:

Experian: 881–960 = good, 961+ = excellent
Equifax: 420–465 = good, 466+ = excellent
TransUnion: 604–627 = good, 628+ = excellent

Don’t worry if your score isn’t perfect — most lenders look at the full picture.

How to Check Your Credit Score (for Free)

The easiest way to check all your scores at once is with a tool like Check My File, which gives a 30-day free trial and covers all 3 main reference agents. The free trial can be then cancelled, otherwise, it’s £14.99 per month afterwards.

You can also use:

Experian: Free account with monthly updates
ClearScore: Free access to Equifax data
Credit Karma: Free access to TransUnion data

Common Credit Issues First-Time Buyers Miss

When reviewing your report, keep an eye out for:

Incorrect addresses or outdated info
Unused accounts still open
Missed payments or defaults
Financial links to ex-partners or housemates
High credit usage (try to stay under 50%)

If you spot mistakes, you can raise a dispute with the credit agency directly.

Quick Tips to Improve Your Score

Start boosting your score 3–6 months before applying:

✔ Register to vote at your current address
✔ Make all payments on time
✔ Reduce outstanding credit card balances
✔ Avoid applying for lots of credit at once
✔ Close unused accounts carefully

Keep in Touch

Your property may be repossessed if you don’t keep up with your repayments on your mortgage.

How can we help?

Whether you’re looking for a Free Automated Valuation, a mortgage offer, a price on insurance or advice on accessing business finance, we are here to help email us on info@ltcmortgages.co.uk or call us on 0151 662 0188