By James Davis


Whether you are a landlord and want to rent out your home or a tenant on the quest for a new place to live, credit checks are one of the first things on your mind. Among employment reports, leasing recommendations, national criminal research or eviction reports, the credit check report is one of the most important aspects that help a landlord decide whether or not to rent his home to a tenant.

If you have a loan, whether it is a home loan, student loan, or personal loan, you must be judicious in your repayment plan. All information regarding your loans, current and past, are recorded in your credit report and this information will be used in making decisions regarding all your future financial transactions.

The information that is contained in your credit record will then be used to determine your credit score. When you make punctual payments, you earn points which can increase this score.

Your overall credit rating is based on your points. The higher your points, the higher your rating. To maintain a good rating, ensure that all your credit card debts are promptly paid.

Given the case you have bad credit or no credit history at all, you are unable to prove what kind of tenant you are from a financial point of view. You might need a letter from a guarantor who is willing to ensure your landlord he will cover all of the risks should you fail to pay the rent.

Another important aspect all tenants should know is their financial and credit card information are kept by credit agencies for a certain number of years. Bankruptcies or late debt payments make the object of many credit reporting companies that come in the help of landlords who need to make decisions fast.

Regularly checking your credit report for errors and omissions is vital. It could be the difference between your application to a landlord being accepted or denied. There are many avenues available to obtain your yearly free credit report. Make sure you view each credit report from the three primary reporting agencies and have any incorrect information changed appropriately.

Keep in mind that a landlord has many options when verifying the financial history of a possible tenant including tenants-screening and credit reporting companies. Make sure you are on top of your personal information so that, when the time comes, there are no surprises on your reports and the leasing process will move smoothly.




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