5 Simple Steps to Boost Your Credit Starting Now.

Strong credit isn’t about chasing a perfect number – it’s about unlocking freedom. With a healthier credit score, you open doors to lower interest rates, more loan options, and the peace of mind that you’re in control of your financial future.

At Dwell, we believe everyone deserves to aim for 850. And the good news? You don’t need a magic wand, you just need a few consistent, smart habits.

Here are 5 simple steps you can start today.

1. Pay on Time, Every Time

It sounds basic, but this is the #1 driver of your score. Even one late payment can hurt.

✅ Set up autopay for at least the minimum on every account.
✅ Add calendar reminders so nothing slips through the cracks.

On-time payments are proof to lenders that you’re reliable.

2. Keep Balances Low (Especially on Credit Cards)

Your credit utilization (the balance vs. your limit) makes up a big part of your score. Aim to stay well below 30% on each card (and lower is better)

Pro tip: Make a mid-cycle payment before your statement closes. That way, the balance reported to the bureaus is lower, even if you spend more during the month.

3. Protect Your Credit History

Length matters. The longer your accounts stay open and in good standing, the stronger your profile looks. That means:

✔ Don’t rush to close older cards, even if you don’t use them much.
✔ Keep your oldest accounts active with a small recurring charge (like Netflix).

Your credit age is like your reputation. It grows more valuable the longer you’ve built it.

4. Be Smart With New Credit

New credit isn’t bad, but too much at once can raise red flags. Every hard inquiry has a small effect on your score.

Here’s the good news: for mortgages, all your credit checks in a 14–45 day window count as one inquiry. That means you can shop around for the best loan without damaging your score.

5. Check Your Reports & Correct Mistakes

Did you know errors show up on millions of credit reports each year? A wrong balance, a late payment that never happened, or even medical debt that shouldn’t be reported can all weigh you down.

Get your free reports at AnnualCreditReport.com and review them line by line. Dispute anything that’s wrong. This alone can add points to your score.

Myths to Ignore

✘ “Checking my score hurts me.”
False. You can (and should) check your own credit anytime.

✘ “I only have one score.”
Nope,you have many. Mortgage lenders often use the middle of your three bureau scores.
✘ “I need a perfect 850 to get a good loan.”
Not true, lenders use tiers. You can often unlock the best rates once you cross into the higher bands.

Conclusion

Credit is power. Every on-time payment, every reduced balance, every smart choice builds momentum. And momentum builds confidence.

At Dwell, we believe everyone deserves the freedom that comes with strong credit. Because strong credit isn’t just a number – it’s opportunity.