FICO Score: Best way to increase it.

[Marcel B.]

Hello,

I plan on buying my first multifamily this summer with an FHA loan. My lender said that I need a min. 650 FICO score and that they "take the middle score". My scores are as follows:

Experian FICO Score 2: 586

Experian FICO Score 8: 680

Equifax FICO Score (I believe 5): 625

Avg. = 630

2 Questions:

1. Regarding FICO Score 2 (my lowest score) the Experian website says, "This is a previous FICO® Score version used primarily in mortgages lending. It may also be used by some lenders for other credit product application evaluations (such as credit cards, personal loans, retail credit, student loans, etc.)." Do lenders still use this score?

2. I make all my payments on time, but I am looking at what I can do to get my score up faster. Should I apply for another credit card? 

Thanks

[Thomas S.]

You first need to determine why your score is so low. Knowing that will determine your course of action in the future. I would not plan on investing this year with a score as bad as yours appears to be.

To get a head start on investing you need a much higher score than the bare minimum requirements. Look to push your score above the 750 range or higher before you start.