Do you know what is on your credit report? While you don't have to know this information to get approved, you can improve your chances.
Credit reports can have errors on them, needlessly penalizing you. Double-check with a free copy of your credit history. You may also find open accounts that you haven't used for a long time. Closing these accounts can improve your credit score, qualify you for better rates.
You may also find that your credit score isn't so bad. You can have good credit standing two years after a bankruptcy. A late payment can decrease in importance in a year or so too.
2. Shop Conventional Lenders First
Conventional lenders also offer financing to those with poor credit. Depending on your score, you may find the best rates with these types of companies. Even though they are conventional lenders, they will still charge higher rates for B, C, and D loans.
Subprime lenders should also be checked out. They specialize in dealing with people with poor credit histories. They can also offer some unconventional loans, such as 100% cash out of your home equity.
3. Be Honest About Your Credit
Be honest about your credit history when requesting quotes from lenders. Their loan quotes are only as good as the information your provide them with. If you apply for a line of credit with false information, you will be denied. In accurate information will also give you unrealistic quotes.
Bad credit doesn't mean no credit. You will find a lender, regardless of your credit score. So don't jump at the first loan offer you receive. Compare lenders and their terms to get the best line of credit. Spending a couple of hours researching companies can yield hundreds of dollars in savings on fees and interest charges.
