Your credit score is one of the most important factors in determining your ability to secure a variety of loans and credit cards. Your score can also affect your interest rates and loan terms.
A 722 credit score is a good starting point for many consumers, as it allows you to access a wide range of credit products. However, improving your score can increase your odds of approval for even more credit, at better interest rates.
Overview of a 722 Credit Score
A 722 credit score falls in the good credit range and is a common score used by lenders to assess your creditworthiness. A score in this range is considered good enough to qualify for most borrowing options, including mortgages, auto loans and credit cards.
Borrowers with a 722 credit score can expect to receive credit card offers that have attractive perks, such as 0% introductory interest rates on new purchases and balance transfers. But they also need to pay attention to their credit utilization rate, as high utilization can negatively impact your score.
Borrowers with a 722 credit rating are more likely to be approved for a mortgage than other borrowers, according to Fannie Mae’s lending standards. However, this score is not high enough to qualify for a lender’s best mortgage interest rates.
Credit Card Options with a 722 Credit Score
A 722 credit score can give you access to a wide variety of card options with enticing perks, including cash back, travel rewards and introductory 0% APR offers. These cards can help you save money on interest and pay off big-ticket purchases faster.
However, these cards are also risky if you aren’t careful. Issuers may consider your credit utilization ratio when making decisions, and if you don’t pay your balance in full every month, your score could suffer.
For credit card applicants with 722 credit scores, the best option is to get a low-interest card that comes with a generous sign-up bonus, says Rossman. That way, you can try out the card for a year or two to see if it fits your lifestyle and then cancel or downgrade it if it doesn’t work well for you.
Auto Loans with a 722 Credit Score
If you have a 722 credit score, you’ll have plenty of auto loan options available to you. These include banks, credit unions, online lenders and loan marketplaces.
Lenders set auto loan interest rates based in part on your credit score and other factors, which are weighted differently. In addition, your vehicle’s age and condition can affect interest rates as well.
Getting preapproved for an auto loan before you shop is a good idea. This will give you an idea of what you can afford, and it also gives you leverage when negotiating with dealerships. Moreover, it will let you compare rates and terms from several different lenders before making a decision.
Personal Loan Options with a 722 Credit Score
If you’re looking for a new personal loan, it’s important to understand your options. The best loans for borrowers with good credit offer competitive interest rates, flexible loan terms and inclusive eligibility requirements.
A personal loan may be an affordable way to fund home improvements, a family vacation or a car purchase. These loans typically have lower interest rates than credit cards, but you should always shop around for the best rate and term for your needs.
Some lenders will allow you to cosign on a personal loan, which could increase your chances of getting approved. But be aware that these loans carry additional fees, like origination and processing fees, and late payment or prepayment penalties.
Mortgages with a 722 Credit Score
Having a 722 credit score is a good sign for borrowers who are looking to purchase a home. As a result, borrowers with this score should have little trouble qualifying for conforming mortgages (conventional loans that meet the standards of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac), as well as FHA mortgages with low down payments.
Those with this score can also get approved for a variety of other types of home loans, including reverse mortgages. While this credit score isn’t high enough to qualify for the best interest rates or loan terms on a conventional loan, you should be able to find a few lenders who are willing to offer you competitive options.
The best way to improve your credit score is by making on-time payments and reducing the amount of credit you use. This is a great way to boost your credit score and unlock the best mortgage, auto and personal loan options for you and your family.