FIRST-time buyers could get on the ladder with help from their Netflix and Spotify subscription, as part of a service launched by one lender.
Borrowers who have 12 months’ of regular direct debits can boost their credit score under the partnership between Leeds Building Society and credit firm Experian.
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A better credit score shows you are a trustworthy borrower and plays favourably when lenders are making mortgage decisions.
Activity from your current account doesn’t usually affect your credit profile.
But under the Experian Boost service, applicants can choose to link their account to their credit history to improve their lending profile with Leeds.
The lender found that around one in 13 applicants would see their credit score boosted by the service.
The initiative could be particularly helpful for would-be buyers living at home with parents and don’t have a track record of paying utility bills to build their credit scores.
Using the service they can instead prove they are financially responsible and keep on top of bills for subscription services, as well as council tax.
The lender promised that linking your current account won’t negatively impact your credit score – it will either boost it or stay the same.
Leeds said it is the first lender to partner with Experian to offer the service.
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However, first-time buyers should still look around the market to make sure they get the best mortgage for their individual circumstances.
Your credit profile is only one factor that affects decisions made by mortgage lenders.
An independent broker can help search the market to find the most suitable deals.
Richard Fearon, chief executive at Leeds Building Society, said: “We’re proud to be the first mortgage lender in the UK to make it easier for aspiring homeowners by incorporating free, boosted credit scores.
“This will particularly help younger borrowers, first time buyers and anyone on lower incomes who face the toughest challenge to prove their ability to repay.”
The move comes follows fellow building society Skipton’s launch of a zero-deposit mortgage deal aimed at renters who aspire to be first-time buyers.
Skipton said tenants aged 21 and over may be able to take out mortgages at between 95% to 100% of the value of the property they want to buy.
In return, they will need to demonstrate a strong track record of paying their rent, with evidence of a minimum of 12 months of rental history, as well as passing affordability and credit checks.
