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717 Credit Score: Is It Good Or Bad (+ Can I Fix It)?

  • A 717 credit score is good but can be improved for better loan rates.
  • Addressing negative marks and maintaining healthy habits can help raise your score.
  • Call The Credit Pros to potentially boost your score by evaluating your report and creating an improvement plan.

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A 717 credit score is solid but not perfect. It puts you in the "good" category and opens doors to better rates on loans, mortgages, and credit cards. You can improve this score further to secure even better lending terms and rates. Focus on addressing any negative marks and maintaining healthy credit habits.

Make timely payments, keep your credit utilization below 30%, and avoid opening multiple new accounts at once. Regularly check your credit report for errors and correct any inaccuracies. If you want to raise your score by 50-100 points, take action now. Don’t let a good score hold you back from potential savings and opportunities.

What’s the best next step? Call The Credit Pros today. We’ll chat in a friendly, straightforward way to evaluate your credit report and help you create a plan to improve your score. We’re here to support you in reaching your credit goals!

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    Why Is My Credit Score Only 717 (And Not Perfect)?

    Your credit score of 717 is good, but it’s not perfect because it falls on the lower end of the good range. Scores range as follows: 670-739 is good, 740-799 is very good, and 800-850 is exceptional.

    Several factors can affect your score. You may have a short credit history or some mistakes, like late payments or high credit utilization, which can keep your score from rising higher. Lenders view scores below 740 as riskier, possibly resulting in higher interest rates for you.

    To improve your score, focus on these actions:
    • Pay your bills on time every month.
    • Keep your credit utilization low, ideally under 30%.
    • Avoid opening multiple new accounts at once.

    Regularly checking your credit report for errors is vital. Correcting mistakes can also boost your score. For specific methods to increase a 717 credit score by 50-100+ points, you can refer to our detailed section.

    As a final point, stay on top of your bills, monitor your credit report, and maintain low utilization to help improve your score and secure better lending terms.

    5 Best Ways To Boost A 717 Credit Score 50-100+ Points?

    To boost your 717 credit score by 50-100+ points, you can follow these five effective strategies:

    • Make On-Time Payments: Pay your bills on time. This factor impacts 35% of your FICO score. Set automatic payments or reminders to avoid missing due dates.

    • Reduce Credit Card Balances: Lower your credit utilization ratio to increase your score. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit limit. Pay down high balances or make multiple payments throughout the month.

    • Request a Credit Limit Increase: Reach out to your credit card issuer to ask for a credit limit increase. This can help lower your utilization rate. Just be aware that applying for new credit may cause a slight dip in your score.

    • Register for Experian Boost: Sign up for Experian Boost to add on-time payment history for utilities, rent, and other non-reported bills. This simple step can quickly improve your score.

    • Limit New Credit Applications: Avoid applying for multiple credit accounts at once. Each application leads to a hard inquiry, temporarily lowering your score. Focus on managing your current accounts effectively.

    To put it simply, you should make on-time payments, lower your credit card balances, request higher credit limits, register for Experian Boost, and limit new credit applications to see a significant increase in your credit score.

    How Long To Improve My 717 Credit Score 50-100+ Points?

    To improve your 717 credit score by 50-100+ points, you typically see results within one to three months. Your specific actions and current credit profile influence the exact time frame.

    First, focus on your credit utilization. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit on each card. The lower, the better—single digits are ideal. Lowering your credit utilization can lead to fast improvements.

    Next, ensure you pay bills on time. Your payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score. Consistently making on-time payments can quickly boost your score.

    Also, work on paying down existing debt. Reducing your total balances positively impacts your score. Start by targeting cards with the highest balances.

    Avoid new hard inquiries during this process. Limit new credit applications, as too many inquiries can hurt your score.

    Lastly, check and dispute errors on your credit report. Regularly review your report for mistakes; disputing inaccuracies can yield quick improvements.

    If your score is lower than average, you have more room for growth. Small changes can lead to greater increases. We recommend tracking your progress through a credit monitoring service to stay motivated.

    In short, focus on lowering your credit utilization, paying bills on time, reducing debt, avoiding new inquiries, and disputing errors. These steps can help you achieve your desired score improvement.

    Can I Get The Best Mortgage Rates With A 717 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can get the best mortgage rates with a 717 credit score, but it's not a guarantee. A 717 score falls into the "good" range, meaning you have better chances of qualifying for various mortgage options. However, lenders often require a score of 760 or higher to access the absolute best rates.

    With your 717 credit score, you are well above the typical minimum of 620 required for most conventional mortgages. Keep in mind that lenders also consider your income, debt-to-income ratio, and overall financial stability when determining your mortgage interest rate.

    If you receive rates higher than expected, consider improving your credit score. You can boost your score by:
    • Reducing existing debt
    • Making timely payments
    • Correcting inaccuracies on your credit report

    Improving your score can help you secure better rates in the future. To finish, remember that with a 717 credit score, you have solid options, but taking steps to enhance your financial standing could lead to even better rates down the line.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

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    Any Practical Benefits Of A 717 Credit Score

    A 717 credit score offers you several practical benefits. This score falls within the "good" range, enhancing your access to various credit products like loans and credit cards. Lenders view you as a reliable borrower, increasing your chances of approval.

    With a score of 717, you may qualify for lower interest rates. This means you pay less over time on loans and credit products. You also likely receive larger credit limits, giving you more flexibility.

    While 717 isn’t the highest score, it still gives you an edge. You'll receive better offers compared to those with lower scores. Maintaining a 717 score can help you secure favorable mortgage terms too. Many lenders seek scores above 720 for the best rates, so managing your score is essential.

    It's crucial that you monitor your credit regularly. Mistakes can happen, and addressing them quickly prevents loss of these benefits. Focus on your payment history and keep your credit utilization low to maintain or improve your score.

    In essence, a 717 credit score opens solid financial opportunities for you. Stay proactive in managing your credit to fully benefit from what your score offers.

    Can I Get Good Personal Loan Rates With A 717 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can get good personal loan rates with a 717 credit score. A score of 717 is generally considered good, making you eligible for various loan options. Most lenders view scores in the range of 690-719 favorably, so you'll likely qualify for competitive rates.

    When you apply for a personal loan, lenders assess several factors, including your credit score and financial history. With a 717 score, you can expect lower annual percentage rates (APRs) compared to those with lower scores. Typically, borrowers in your score range secure rates around 13.74% on average.

    To maximize your chances of obtaining favorable loan terms, consider these practical steps:

    • Review your credit report for any errors that could affect your score.
    • Maintain a low credit utilization ratio by paying off existing debts.
    • Ensure all future payments are made on time to build a positive credit history.
    • Compare loan offers from multiple lenders to find the best rates.
    • Approach banks where you have existing relationships, as they might offer better terms based on your history.

    These actions help you secure a personal loan that meets your financial needs at a reasonable rate. To wrap up, focus on maintaining your credit score, compare offers, and address any issues on your credit report to enhance your loan prospects.

    Can I Buy Or Lease A Car With A 717 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can buy or lease a car with a 717 credit score. Your score is in the "good" range (700 to 749), which increases your chances of approval for both leasing and financing a vehicle. In fact, over 60% of auto loans are granted to people with credit scores below 740, placing you in a favorable position.

    When you lease, lenders evaluate your credit score to gauge your reliability. A higher score can lead to lower interest rates and better lease terms. Although leasing agreements differ, a score above 700 typically allows for more favorable arrangements. Be aware that you might still face higher interest rates compared to those with excellent scores.

    Consider other factors lenders assess, such as your income and existing debts. By managing these well, you strengthen your application. To find specific lease offers, we advise you to shop around and compare deals. Look for dealerships known for good service and offers that suit your financial situation. If you want to explore ways to boost your credit score, our upcoming sections provide actionable strategies.

    On the whole, you can confidently pursue buying or leasing a car with your 717 credit score. Just keep your income and debts in check, and don't hesitate to compare offers for the best deal possible.

    Credit Card (Secured Or Unsecured) Options With A 717 Credit Score?

    With a credit score of 717, you have various strong credit card options, both secured and unsecured. Your score is considered "good," so lenders typically view you as a low-risk borrower. This means you can easily qualify for a range of unsecured credit cards with attractive rewards and reasonable interest rates.

    • Unsecured Credit Cards: Most major credit card issuers welcome your application. You might consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, known for its valuable rewards structure and bonus for new cardholders. Other excellent choices include the Discover it® Cash Back card, which provides cash back on everyday purchases, and the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, recognized for straightforward cashback rewards.

    • Secured Credit Cards: Opting for a secured credit card can further enhance your credit profile. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is a popular choice. It has no annual fee and allows you to earn cash back on purchases. By using the card responsibly, you can improve your credit score over time.

    Take the time to compare these options to find a card that aligns with your spending habits and financial goals. Review the card terms, including interest rates and fees, to ensure you choose the best fit for your needs.

    Bottom line, with a 717 credit score, you can explore both unsecured and secured credit card options to enhance your financial journey. Choose a card that suits your lifestyle and helps you build your credit further.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    Should I Become An Authorized User If I Want To Boost My 'Good' Credit Score

    Yes, you should consider becoming an authorized user if you want to boost your good credit score. This option allows you to benefit from the primary account holder’s credit history and management habits. When you are added as an authorized user on a credit card, any positive payment history and credit utilization of that account appear on your credit report. This move can quickly elevate your score, especially if the primary account holder has good credit habits.

    To maximize this strategy, ensure the primary account holder is responsible and keeps a low balance. Their good credit management is crucial. If they miss payments or maintain high balances, it could harm your credit score. Thus, choose wisely who you want to add you as an authorized user.

    Not all lenders report authorized user activity to credit bureaus. Confirm that the lender reports this information to ensure it boosts your credit score. In a nutshell, becoming an authorized user can effectively enhance your credit score, as long as you make informed choices about which account to join.

    Which Negative Marks On My Credit Report Affect My 717 Credit Score?

    Negative marks on your credit report that affect your 717 credit score include:

    • Payment History: Late or missed payments can significantly lower your score, making this the most critical factor, accounting for about 35% of your total score.

    • Credit Utilization: This measures how much credit you use compared to your total available credit. High balances can negatively impact your score.

    • Length of Credit History: A shorter credit history can hurt your score. Consider keeping older accounts open to improve this aspect.

    • New Credit Inquiries: When you apply for credit, a hard inquiry occurs. Multiple inquiries in a short period can reduce your score.

    • Account Types: A diverse mix of credit (loans, credit cards, etc.) is beneficial. However, too many accounts or those in collections can lower your score.

    To improve your 717 credit score, focus on minimizing these negative marks. All in all, by improving payment habits, managing credit utilization, and keeping older accounts active, you can enhance your credit standing and work towards better scores.

    Should I Negotiate And Pay Off Debts To Improve My 'Good' Credit Score?

    Yes, you should negotiate and pay off debts to improve your credit score, but proceed with caution. Settling a debt means you agree to pay less than the total amount owed. This often results in a "settled" status rather than "paid in full," which can negatively impact your score.

    Paying off the full amount is generally more beneficial. A "paid in full" status on your credit report reflects that you met your obligations, which lenders prefer. Accounts closed in good standing can remain on your report for up to 10 years and positively influence your score.

    If you decide to negotiate, you can do it yourself or work with a nonprofit credit counseling agency. Avoid for-profit debt settlement companies, as their fees can add up and further damage your credit. Stopping payments while negotiating may lead to collections, worsening your situation.

    The gist of it is that negotiating can help with financial stress, but you should understand its potential impacts on your credit score. Aim to pay off debts in full whenever you can.

    Best Site To Monitor My Credit Report?

    The best site to monitor your credit report is AnnualCreditReport.com. This authorized federal site allows you to request a free credit report each year from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You get your credit report at no cost, ensuring you stay informed about your credit history and any changes.

    For ongoing monitoring, consider services like Experian, CreditWise from Capital One, and similar platforms. They provide regular updates and alerts about your credit score and any suspicious activity, helping you protect against identity theft.

    If you seek comprehensive features, premium services often include dark web monitoring, identity theft insurance, and more frequent updates. Check user reviews to gain insights into service quality. This way, you can choose the most suitable option for your credit monitoring needs.

    Remember, you can access your credit report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com and explore ongoing monitoring services to stay alert about your credit score and prevent identity theft.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    Should I Consider A Credit Builder Loan W/ 'Good' Credit?

    Considering a credit builder loan with good credit can be a smart choice. Such loans help you build credit by reporting your payments to major credit bureaus. If your credit score is around 717, you may want to strengthen your payment history or diversify your credit mix.

    With a credit builder loan, your monthly payments go into a locked savings account. After you pay off the loan, you can access those funds. This method not only manages your savings but also boosts your credit score through consistent, on-time payments.

    When considering a credit builder loan, review the costs, such as interest rates and fees. While these loans usually involve smaller amounts and shorter terms, the benefits of enhancing your credit could outweigh any initial expenses.

    Here are a few points to consider:
    • They reinforce your payment history.
    • They improve your credit mix.
    • They can help you manage savings effectively.

    If you want flexible options, check out products like Credit Karma's Credit Builder. Always compare different loans to find the best fit for your financial goals.

    At the end of the day, a credit builder loan can enhance your credit profile, especially if you're proactive and make timely payments.

    Is A 717 Credit Score Different Between Fico And Vantage?

    Yes, a 717 credit score differs between FICO and VantageScore models.

    FICO scores range from 300 to 850. A score of 717 is categorized as "good," falling within the 670 to 739 range for good FICO scores. VantageScores also range from 300 to 850 but define a "good" score as 661 to 780. While both models label a 717 score as good, the implications may vary depending on the scoring model used.

    It’s vital for you to know that FICO and VantageScore use different criteria and weight them differently. For instance, FICO focuses more on payment history and amounts owed, whereas VantageScore considers a broader range of factors. Therefore, your score could vary when lenders assess it, based on the model they prefer to use.

    Lastly, understanding these differences empowers you to navigate your credit score awareness and management effectively.

    Does My 717 Credit Score Affect My Chance To Rent An Apartment?

    Yes, your 717 credit score positively affects your chances of renting an apartment. A score of 717 is considered good, indicating to landlords that you’re likely to pay rent on time. Most landlords prefer tenants with credit scores of 600 or higher, so your score puts you well above that threshold.

    When landlords review credit scores, they assess your reliability based on your past payment history. A 717 score suggests you handle payments responsibly, making you an attractive candidate for rental decisions.

    While your credit score significantly influences your rental application, other factors also play a role, including your income, employment history, and rental history. Maintaining your good credit standing improves your overall chances. Different landlords may have varying criteria, but generally, a 717 score is a strong asset in your favor when renting an apartment.

    Finally, a 717 credit score gives you an advantage in the rental market. Keep up your good financial habits to enhance your chances even further.

    Can A Credit Repair Company Actually Boost My 'Good' Score Any Further

    Yes, a credit repair company can boost your 'good' credit score further. They specialize in correcting inaccuracies on your credit report, which can enhance your score if errors exist. They help you dispute incorrect information and monitor your credit reports for new negative items.

    If your credit report is accurate, a legitimate credit repair company cannot remove negative marks. For example, missed payments stay on your report for about 7 to 10 years. If a company promises to remove accurate negative information, you might be dealing with a scam.

    You can perform most tasks that a credit repair service does by yourself, for free. If you decide to hire a credit repair service, ensure it's reputable. Some companies, like Credit Pros, offer solid services and monitor all three major credit bureaus.

    If you want specific advice related to your 717 credit score, check sections about "best ways to boost a 717 credit score" or "how long to improve my 717 credit score" in this article. Big picture - focus on maintaining good credit habits for long-term success while knowing when to seek help for errors.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

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