Improving your credit score to super-prime levels (781-850 on FICO) requires consistent habits targeting its five key factors: payment history (35%), utilization (30%), length of credit history (15%), credit mix (10%), and new credit (10%). Start with discipline in payments and debt management for fastest gains, potentially 100+ points in months.
Pay Bills On Time
Always pay at least the minimum due before deadlines—set autopay and reminders. This builds the strongest factor; even one late payment drops scores 100 points and lingers 7 years. Use tools like Experian Boost to add on-time rent/utilities for instant lifts of 10-30 points.
Lower Credit Utilization
Keep balances under 10% of limits (ideally 1-30%) across all cards—pay before statement closing dates. For example, on a KES 100,000 limit, stay below KES 10,000. Request limit increases without hard inquiries to dilute ratios further.
Retain Old Accounts
Avoid closing longstanding cards; they boost average age (aim for 10+ years). Piggyback authorized user status on a family member's prime card with low utilization for quick history gains.
Diversify Credit Mix
Maintain 1-2 cards plus an installment loan (e.g., Prime Bank personal loan) in good standing. Don't open new loans just for mix—focus on organic variety.
Limit Applications
Space new credit requests 3-6 months apart; too many inquiries tank scores 5-10 points each. Pre-qualify first to avoid hard pulls.
Track progress weekly via free CIBIL/TransUnion reports in Kenya or CIC equivalents. In 3-12 months, salaried Nairobi professionals like you can hit super-prime, unlocking Prime Bank rates 2-3% lower. Patience yields results—gains accelerate above 700.
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