Fix, Build & Prepare Your Credit for Homeownership
Stop guessing. This step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to position your credit for mortgage approval — without paying for credit repair.
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Barbara Ligondé · Licensed Realtor · FL | Mortgage Loan Officer · FL & GA
NMLS: 2009994 · Co NMLS: 2380218
TO
KEYS
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Fix, Build, and Prepare Your Credit for Homeownership
FREE
What's inside
Everything you need to go from credit-confused to mortgage-ready
8 power-packed sections covering every aspect of credit — written in plain language, designed for action.
How Credit Scores Work
The 5 key factors that make up your score — and which ones to fix first for the fastest results.
- Payment history (35%)
- Credit utilization (30%)
- Length, mix & inquiries
Hidden Credit Mistakes
10 common decisions that kill mortgage approvals — even when your score looks good.
- Buying a car before closing
- Opening new credit cards
- Paying collections incorrectly
Step-by-Step Credit Reset
A 5-step action plan to dispute, clean, and rebuild your credit the right way.
- Pull & review your reports
- File CFPB complaints
- Build positive history fast
Credit Score Goals
Exactly what score you need for FHA, conventional, and DPA programs — with realistic timelines.
- 580+ → FHA with 3.5% down
- 640+ → Down payment assistance
- 700+ → Best interest rates
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Sneak peek inside
10 hidden mistakes that cost buyers their approval
These are the decisions people make right before applying — that destroy their chances.
Buying a Car Before Closing
Increases your DTI and can get your loan denied outright.
Opening New Credit Cards
Lowers your score and raises concerns in underwriting.
Closing Credit Cards
Increases utilization and shortens your history.
Paying Collections Incorrectly
Can update the account negatively and restart the clock.
Moving Money Without Explanation
Large deposits raise red flags. Always keep a paper trail.
Not Using Credit at All
Zero activity can be just as harmful as bad credit to lenders.
Get all 10 mistakes + how to avoid every single one
Know your target
What credit score do you actually need?
You don't need perfect credit — you need a plan. Here's what each score unlocks.
| Credit Score | Loan Type | What It Unlocks |
|---|---|---|
| 580+ | FHA Loan | Low down payment — as little as 3.5% down |
| 620+ | Conventional Loan | Broader loan options, lower mortgage insurance |
| 640+ | Down Payment Assistance | Many DPA programs require 640+ to qualify |
| 700+ | Best Rates | Access to the lowest interest rates available |
⚠️ Important: Your credit score alone does not determine your approval. Barbara evaluates your full financial picture — income, debts, employment, and stability — to find the best loan for you.
It's already working
Buyers who started exactly where you are
Hollywood, FL
Elizabeth — Single first-time buyer
Didn't think she could purchase because of her immigration status. Barbara found the right program and she closed on a beautiful townhouse.
First-time buyer ✓Margate, FL
Denise & Eric — 580 score
Eric's score was below 580. Barbara raised it in 2 months and they moved in 4 months later with just 3.5% down.
3.5% down ✓Davenport, FL
The Pierre Family — 15+ yrs renting
After 15+ years of renting, their 3BR/3BA mortgage is now less than their old rent was. They own and build wealth every month.
Renters no more ✓
Barbara Ligondé
The Key Releaser™ · Licensed Realtor & Loan Officer
Barbara created the Credit to Keys guide because she saw too many buyers lose deals — not because they couldn't qualify, but because they didn't have the right information. She is a licensed Realtor in Florida and Mortgage Loan Officer serving Florida & Georgia, and your single point of contact from first question to closing day.
Bad credit doesn't stop people from buying homes.
Not having a plan does.
Get your free Credit to Keys guide and start building the plan that takes you from where you are — to your closing table.
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