What is a credit score? 

A credit score is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to 900 that denotes your creditworthiness. In other words, it is an indicator of your ability to repay the loan on time. The credit bureaus evaluate important factors such as credit utilisation ratio and credit repayment history and assign the credit score for every individual. 

What is considered to be a good credit score for home loans in India?

While different lenders have a different benchmark credit score requirements for approving home loan applications, scores in the range of 700-750 are regarded as fairly good. 

A higher score that is closer to 900 means you stand a better chance of getting your loan approved. You can also expect to enjoy other benefits such as faster loan application processing, better pricing such as lower interest rates and discounted processing fee and a larger loan amount.

What are the different credit bureaus in India?

A credit bureau is an organisation that collects and analyses an individual’s and business entity’s financial data and their repayment, including loans, credit cards, overdraft, etc. Credit bureaus use this data to create a credit score for individuals and businesses. 

For lenders, credit bureaus act as a reliable source for collecting information on a customer’s credit history and repayment capacity. 

The most prominent credit bureaus in India are: CIBIL (Credit Information Bureau India Limited), Equifax, Highmark, and Experian. 

Why Should You Have a Good Credit Score?

When you apply for a home loan and have a high credit score, i.e., more than 750, you can expect the lender to reward you with special benefits like:

• Enhanced home loan eligibility: You can borrow a higher amount (if required).
• Faster loan processing: The lender may process your loan application faster and disburse the amount quickly.

Other benefits: Because of your high credibility and good repayment history, the lender may offer a home loan at a lower interest rate as well as a discounted  processing fees and other charges.

How to improve your credit score?

• Pay your credit card bills or loans on time. 
• Make sure that you settle your bills in full. 
• Maintain a good balance between secured and unsecured loans.
• Always check your credit report and check for mistakes. If you find any unsolicited transactions, report the same immediately to the credit bureau and get them rectified. 
• Use your credit card carefully and try not to utilise more than 50% of the credit limit.
• Avoid applying for too many loans at the same time. This will reflect that you are credit hungry.