Yes, get a copy of your credit report! Errors in credit reports can be difficult to correct, even time-consuming. Before you begin shopping for a house or mortgage, it is wise to get your credit report from these 3 credit reporting agencies:

Equifax Credit Information Services:  PO Box 740256, Atlanta GA 303-74-0256 or call: 800-685-1111 or go online to: www.equifax.com

Experian National Consumer Assistance Center: PO Box 949, Allen TX 75013-0949 or call: 800-682-7654 or go online to: www.experian.com

TransUnion National Disclosure Center: PO Box 390, Springfield PA 19064 or call: 800-888-4213 or go online to: www.tuc.com or www.transunion.com

Basically, your credit reports are maintained by these 3 different companies above. Credit reports can vary from each of these companies, because not all creditors will report to all three.

Now, once you get all 3 reports, review each.  Typically you will find opened and closed loan accounts, credit limits, monthly payments. Then comes the ugly part, you might have late payments, missed payments, collections, repossessions, foreclosures, court judgments, even overdue child support payments.

Now, what if you find errors? Contact the credit bureau reporting the wrong information immediately IN WRITING, using certified mail with a return receipt. (for proof that you sent this, asking for corrections to be made).  Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act - the credit bureau MUST investigate your error dispute within 30 days.  Now, this doesn't mean it will be corrected immediately, it will depend how the examination of facts stated was responded to.  Sometimes you have to prove your claim by submitting documentation, some type of proof.

It's easy to establish credit. If you have recurring bills such as rent, cell phones, car insurance payments, utility bills...you are establishing credit. So make sure you pay these bills on time and keep copies of these bills & cancelled checks or proof of payment. Have a checking and savings account, making sure you keep the minimum balances in each or more. Credit cards are good to have, as long as they are not abused. Don't charge more than you can afford, even try not to charge more than half the credit allowed. If possible, pay each charge card balance in full every month.

There are several great lenders out there, who will be more than happy to sit down with you & discuss financing needs. If you are considering purchasing a home - please take this advice, get your credit report copies first to see if there are errors needing to get fixed.