I've always found it odd how EASY it is to get credit…but how HARD it is to maintain it. Unfortunately, many borrowers find their homebuying dreams derailed by financial decisions they made when they were young. If you find yourself in a position like this and your existing credit is a bit rocky, here are:

Four tips to get your credit "homebuying ready"

 1. Automate your payments.

In today's digital world, you don't have to wait for paper bills or waste time making payments in person. Most times, you can easily log into your online accounts to see what's due when it's due and even set up automatic payments. One late payment alone can knock down your overall credit score. So why take the risk? Know what's due and pay it on time, every time.

 2. Answer the call.

Do you screen your calls out of fear that it may be a bill collector? It's understandable, but the best thing you can do is answer the phone and talk to them. Find out why your account is on their records and how you can resolve the problem. You may be pleasantly surprised by how much creditors will work with you. 

Remember, their goal is to collect payment and your goal is to improve your credit. So work together on a plan that meets both needs.

3. Always be aware. 

Keep tabs on your credit with free credit-monitoring sites like Mint and Credit Karma. With these tools, you can see your credit score each month, where you're doing well, and where you need to focus. 

Bonus: Keeping tabs on your credit will also help you identify and quickly resolve fraudulent activity in your name. 

4. Apply what you know. 

Remember, just because you're approved for a $5,000 credit card doesn't mean you should go on a $5,000 shopping spree! Lenders want to see a lot of available credit on your account, so keep your balances low and make payments early.

You're off to a great start!

You're taking steps to learn about your credit score, how it works and responsible ways to manage your debt — that's a great start! 

Repairing your credit is absolutely possible. It takes some commitment and discipline. But sticking to it and following these four tips can put you on the fast track to your homeownership dreams.