How can I improve my credit score before applying for a mortgage?

Pay revolving balances below 30% utilization, dispute incorrect items, avoid new accounts, and pay all bills on time for 6+ months.

FICO improvement before a mortgage application can save tens of thousands in interest over the loan life. The highest-leverage moves: (1) Pay down revolving balances below 30% utilization on each card, ideally below 10%. Utilization is roughly 30% of FICO weight - this is the single fastest mover. (2) Dispute incorrect items via Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion online disputes. Errors are common and often resolved in 30-45 days. (3) Avoid new credit accounts in the 6 months before applying. Each new inquiry drops FICO 2-5 points temporarily. (4) Pay every bill on time. Even one 30-day late payment can drop FICO 60-100 points. (5) Do not close old accounts. Length of credit history matters; closing your oldest card hurts. The window matters: lenders typically pull credit at application and again right before close. A score that improves between those pulls can improve your rate tier even mid-loan. Avoid making large purchases, opening new accounts, or co-signing for anyone during the application-to-close window.