1. Know your credit score Credit scores range from 300 to 850, and the higher, the better. They're based on whether you've paid personal loans, car loans, credit cards, and other debt in full and on time in the past. You'll need a score of at least 620 to qualify for a home loan and 740 to get the best interest rates and terms. You're entitled to a free copy of your credit report annually from each of the major credit-reporting bureaus, Equifax, Experian, and (1 comments)