Because the way you’ve managed your finances in the past can help predict how you are likely to do so in the future, lenders will consider your credit rating when you apply for a mortgage or other loan. Your credit rating is the clearest reflection we can see of how you handle your finances. A higher credit score may help you qualify for better mortgage interest rates, and some lenders may lower their down payment requirement for a new home loan if you have a high credit score.

Learn more about credit scores and what they mean on Investopedia