Before applying for a mortgage, it’s always a good idea to check your credit rating, whether you believe it’s bad or not.
You can check your credit reports online, here are some links to credit check companies:
www.experian.co.uk
www.equifax.co.uk
www.callcredit.co.uk
These credit reports will give you an overall credit score which the lenders will use to decide if you are a safe bet to lend money to. There are many reasons for a poor credit history and these can be:
1. Missed credit card, loan, hire purchase or mortgage payments.
2. Being declared bankrupt or having a debt management plan.
3. Having a County Court Judgement (CCJ) in your name.
4. Errors on your credit record.
If you find that you have a less than perfect credit rating, don’t panic. You can work to improve this, or if you need to get a mortgage in the very near future, there are lenders that will consider your application.
