How to build your credit score when you are broke

The early years of adulthood, often filled with excitement and newfound independence, can also be accompanied by financial struggles. As you navigate through your 20s and early 30s, expenses like your first car, apartment, and unexpected furniture costs can quickly add up. In the midst of these financial challenges, it's essential not to overlook the importance of building a credit score. A solid credit score is your ticket to securing future financial opportunities, such as qualifying for a home loan.

In this article, we'll explore expert advice on how to build your credit score even when you're dealing with a tight budget.

Taking the Long-Term View

Building a good credit score is a gradual process that requires a long-term perspective. The financial strain that many young professionals experience during these years can't be underestimated but while some life stages might involve relying more on credit, it's crucial to consistently meet the minimum repayments on your various sources of debt. Over time, certain debts, like student loans and car loans, will be paid off, freeing up funds that can be used to reduce other debts and improve your credit score.

The Magic Number: Three Lines of Credit

Goslett recommends that individuals serious about boosting their credit score aim to have three lines of credit. This strategic number demonstrates to financial institutions that you can manage different types of credit responsibly. Having more than three lines might raise concerns that you're overextending yourself, while fewer lines could result in a thin credit history. As you approach the point of applying for a home loan, it's important to note that most credit checks consider the last six months of credit activity. To ensure the best possible credit score for your application, start reducing your debts at least six months before approaching financial institutions.

The Power of an Active Savings Account

While it might seem counterintuitive to focus on savings when you're trying to manage existing debt, having an active savings account can significantly contribute to improving your credit score. Once you've made progress in lowering your debts, shift your attention to building up your savings. This not only increases your chances of securing a lower interest rate on your future home loan but also provides a safety net for unexpected costs associated with buying a property, such as transfer duties and registration fees.

Expert Insights for First-Time Buyers

For those taking their first steps into the real estate market, seek guidance from experienced real estate advisors. These professionals can offer invaluable insights into the realities of property purchasing. They can help you understand the costs involved, the price range that aligns with your search criteria, and an estimated timeline for finding your ideal home. This information provides a practical framework for organizing your finances effectively.

Ways to monitor your credit score

Staying on top of your credit score is crucial, especially when you're navigating the path of financial recovery. It's easy to feel overwhelmed in this process, but fortunately, there are numerous tools and resources that can aid you in monitoring your credit score. 

Experian, Clearscore, and TransUnion are just three ways you can check your credit score and ensure that all the information on the report is correct. Remember, maintaining a good credit score is an ongoing process. Regular monitoring can help you understand how your financial decisions impact your score and provide insights into how you can improve it.