Where do I start?
What's in a number?
A lot, if you're talking about your credit score. Lenders evaluate your ability to repay a loan based on your score. A well-known score is the FICO score (named for the Fair Isaac Corporation), which uses a formula to calculate a single value to indicate creditworthiness and determine the risk involved in extending credit. Credit bureaus use different scoring systems, which range numerically from the 300s to about 900. The higher your score, the better chance you have of getting better terms for credit extended.
Determine your credit score
You can start with a free service that should give you an idea of your credit worthiness.
What determines a credit score?
Basically 5 factors determine your score -
- Past delinquencies
- The way you use your credit (usually running high balances versus keeping low balances that are paid in full monthly)
- Age of the credit file
- The number of inquiries on your credit file
- Your mix of credit (consumers with secured cards generally pose more risk than someone with a mix of installment loans and/or revolving lines)
What steps should I take to apply for a loan?
- Review your personal credit file to determine your score and whether any accounts are reported which are not yours. Contact the credit reporting agency immediately to begin clearing up any incorrect information. Gather receipts or other documentation you may need to prove that a debt shown on your report is not yours.
- Carefully review your finances to determine how much you can afford to pay each month for the credit you will be requesting. Check available rates for the type of loan you want, i.e., car loan, home equity line of credit, boat loan, mortgage loan, etc. A ServisFirst Bank representative can help with this process.
- Begin gathering documents required for the application process – W2s, tax returns, bank statements, etc. A ServisFirst Bank lending professional can guide you as to what is generally required.
- You’re ready to begin the application process! A little preparation can help the application process flow more smoothly. Take an active role in the loan process – you’ll be glad you spent the time up front.
What does this mean?
We have created a glossary of frequently used terms. If you still have questions about a term after you have visited this page, please reach out to one of our mortgage professionals and they will be happy to help.