One of the most important pieces of the puzzle that is your personal finance situation is your credit score. When getting a home loan, it can effect whether you get loan, and the terms that you end up with. Before you apply for a home loan, think ahead, and make sure you have three to five months to work on your credit score. Here are some suggestions that can help you give it a boost:

Pay your bills and loan payments on time and in full (at least the minimum)

If you can, pay down some of your debt (and avoid any new debt)

Avoid applying for new credit (including credit cards, in-store financing and car loans)