Getting a Copy of Your Credit Report before Becoming a First Time Home Buyer (cont.)
Contributed by Lisa Marie
Be on the lookout for accounts that have been closed by you, but say otherwise on the report. This happens quite often and if not repaired, can lower your credit score. Other mistakes can include previous loans that have been paid in full and are not noted that way.
If you've found errors on your credit report- now you have to fix them.
It seems kind of scary- it's you vs. a giant credit bureau. This really isn't that tough of a situation to deal with, for the most part anyways. It can jsut take a few weeks or months.
Basically, all you have to do is write a letter to the credit bureau. You can do this on line relatively quickly. Tell the credit bureau about the errors on your report. The credit bureau will then notify your creditors of the problem- the creditor now has ten days to PROVE that they are in the right. If they don't have any proof that they are, the negativity must be removed from your report. After the errors are fixed, the bureau will send you and newly revised and correct copy of your report.
If you're not having any luck this way, you can hire a lawyer who specializes in credit. This avenue is a pricey one, so try doing it yourself first. Then you'' be on your way to a squeaky clean credit report, allowing you to get the best possible rates on your mortgage.
