Overton Home Buyer's Guide Tip of the Month Nevada

First Things First

Get the financial side of your home buying in order. This will save you time and false starts. Begin with obtaining a copy of your credit report to make sure everything is accurate--mistakes happen more often than you imagine.

There are 3 major sources of credit reports: TRW, 800-392-1122; Equifax, 800-685-1111, and Trans Union, 312-408-1050. TRW offers one free report each year. Equifax offers residents of Georgia and Massachusetts one free report each year; residents of most other states must pay $8. Trans Union charges $8 per person for a report. Ideally, you should contact all three bureaus. If you want to save time, Credco, Inc. Will sell you a merged report covering all three companies for $26, 800-637-2422. You should obtain your credit history 2-3 months before you buy a home so you will have time to correct any problems. The credit agencies can provide guidance on how to correct errors and resolve problems.