From your answers, it sounds like you’ve got an average credit rating. Before the credit crunch and the recession, you probably would have passed most credit checks and been approved for credit. However in today’s climate, lenders are tightening up their criteria and you may find you are turned down.
Checking your credit history means you can identify ways to improve your credit rating, which could help you to get a better rate. You can check your credit report online with a free 30 day trial of CreditExpert from Experian.
Our top tips for people with an average credit rating:
1. Always make your repayments on time – missed payments show on your credit report for at least three years and could have a damaging effect on your credit score.
2. Talk to your lender if you are having problems making your repayments – you may be able to reschedule your payments so you can afford them comfortably.
3. Add a note of explanation to your credit report if there are circumstances, like illness or an accident, to explain previous problems.