Redfin Features Hometap's Advice on Smart Credit Habits for Aspiring Homeowners

May 8, 2026


Redfin

Hometap shares expert guidance with Redfin on the credit habits aspiring homeowners should build before applying for a mortgage.

"Building credit before buying a home comes down to a few consistent habits: making on-time payments, keeping your credit utilization under 30%, and avoiding opening too many new accounts in a short period. There's no guaranteed shortcut, but staying consistent with these practices over time puts you in a much stronger position when it's time to apply for a mortgage," Mary Dawson with Hometap shares.

"For those starting from scratch, a secured credit card or a credit-builder loan are two of the most accessible ways to begin establishing a credit history. And if you don't have a card at all, tools like Experian Boost can help you earn credit for on-time rent, utility, or streaming payments, no credit card required," Dawson explains.

This article originally appeared on Redfin. Read the full article here.


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The Hometap family of companies utilizes Hometap Equity Partners, LLC and Hometap Homeownership Solutions, LLC to provide Hometap Home Equity Investments (HEI or HEIs). Each entity has the ability to enter into a HEI directly with the consumer:

Hometap Equity Partners, LLC dba Hometap. NMLS ID# 2467867 361 Newbury St, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02115 NMLS Consumer Access

Hometap Homeownership Solutions, LLC dba Hometap. NMLS ID# 2819930 361 Newbury St, Office 450, Boston, MA 02115 NMLS Consumer Access

Hometap Real Estate Equity Partners, Inc. holds real estate brokerage licenses in certain states. California DRE #02191883

A Hometap HEI has a ten (10) year term, during which no monthly or recurring payments are required. Hometap records a lien against the property, in the form of a mortgage or deed of trust, to secure its interest. You may choose to settle the Investment at any time during the term without incurring any penalties by exercising an Owner Repurchase. If you do not settle the HEI by the expiration of the term, your Hometap HEI provider may exercise its right to acquire a percent ownership interest in the property and then work with you to sell the property. You may contact either Hometap entity at hello@hometap.com (for prospective or current applicants) or homeowners@hometap.com (for homeowners with an active HEI) for more information. Eligibility criteria are subject to change. For current criteria, please contact your Hometap HEI provider at (855) 223-3144 or visit www.hometap.com/faqs

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