How to Get and Maintain a Good Credit Score

Think paying everything in cash is the best way to stay
financially secure? Think again. In this episode, we explore why
having no credit history can actually hurt you when it’s time to
apply for a home loan—and what you can do to build a solid credit
profile.


We’re joined by Kevin James, General Manager at Equifax, who
unpacks the ins and outs of credit scores: what they are, how
they’re calculated, and why they matter. You’ll learn how things
like paying your bills on time and being mindful of your credit
applications can positively impact your score. Kevin also clears
up misconceptions about buy-now-pay-later services and why they
don’t do much to boost your creditworthiness.


If your credit score isn’t where you’d like it
to be, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Kevin shares practical
steps for repairing a bad score, including how to check your
credit report for free and the importance of working with your
lender when times get tough. He also talks about the surprising
benefits of small financial habits, like managing a credit card
or phone plan in your name.


This episode is your guide to understanding and improving your
credit score, helping you get closer to your goal of
homeownership. Listen now and take that next step toward
financial confidence!


Episode Highlights:


00:00 - Introduction


01:59 - Who is Kevin James?


03:30 - What does a credit score actually look like?


04:55 - What behaviours or actions impact a credit score?


06:49 - When does one start getting a credit score?


08:40 - Full payment vs. Minimum payment on credit card bill:
what’s best for your credit score?


09:27 - How does “buy now, pay later” services like Afterpay
influence a credit score?


10:36 - Why are credit scores important for first home buyers?


12:03 - How to find out what your credit score is


15:07 - How does one get a bad credit score


18:24 - How do you repair a bad credit score


22:31 - What impact does applying for multiple credit products
have on a credit score?


25:26 - The role of AI in calculating credit scores


26:21 - Can parents managing bills hinder credit building for
adult children?


28:54 - Why does Money Smart advise against paying for credit
score repair services?


33:34 - What Kevin wishes he knew about credit scores as a first
home buyer


About Our Guest:


Kevin James is the Chief Solutions Officer at
Equifax Australia, leveraging his deep expertise in credit scores
and financial analytics. With over six years at Equifax,
including leading Advisory & Analytics Consultancy Services,
Kevin has built a reputation for delivering strategic insights
and innovative solutions. Known for his passion and ability to
engage on complex topics, he previously held leadership roles at
ANZ, focusing on customer engagement and risk strategy. Based in
Melbourne, Australia, Kevin is a recognised thought leader in
financial services.


Connect with Kevin James:




LinkedIn https://au.linkedin.com/in/kevin-james-b1b0b558




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