Credit reports are essential when it comes to a mortgage because interest rates are based on the credit score. There three major reporting agencies are TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. Everyone can get one free credit report from each agency once a year. I recommend ordering one from TransUnion in January, then in May order from Experian and lastly in October order from Equifax. You do not have to order from them in that order, make sure you order them from whichever agency you want first, second or third. This will allow you the chance to look at your credit report at different stages in the year. Ordering them all at once does not give you that opportunity. Furthermore, you can see what activity is occurring throughout the year. Knowing how to get your credit report and disputing misinformation is essential before getting a mortgage.
