How to handle medical collections when buying a home

Didier Malagies • July 17, 2023
  1. Removal of collection account: When you pay off a medical collection, the collection agency may update the account status to "paid" or "settled" on your credit report. In some cases, they may even remove the collection entirely from your credit report. This can have a positive impact on your credit score because a paid or removed collection is generally viewed more favorably than an unpaid collection.
  2. Scoring models may vary: Different credit scoring models, such as FICO Score and VantageScore, treat paid collections differently. For instance, FICO Score versions 9 and newer do not consider paid medical collections when calculating scores, whereas older versions do. VantageScore models generally exclude all paid collections, regardless of the type. However, it's important to note that lenders might still consider paid collections during their evaluation process, even if they are not factored into the credit score.
  3. Late payment history: Paying off a medical collection does not erase the fact that it was previously delinquent. Late payments associated with the collection account could still have a negative impact on your credit score, even if the collection itself is resolved. However, as time passes, the impact of the late payment history diminishes, and your credit score can gradually improve.
  4. Credit utilization: Paying off medical collections may indirectly affect your credit utilization ratio. When you pay off a collection, it reduces your outstanding debt, which can lower your overall credit utilization if you have other credit accounts. Maintaining a low credit utilization ratio (the percentage of available credit you're using) is generally beneficial for your credit score.
  5. Credit report duration: The impact of a paid medical collection on your credit score lessens over time. Credit scoring models typically place more weight on recent information, so as the collection ages, its influence on your score diminishes. However, the collection will remain on your credit report for a certain period, usually seven years from the date of delinquency, even if it's paid.

Overall, paying off medical collections is generally a positive step as it demonstrates responsibility and a willingness to resolve outstanding debts. While it may not entirely eliminate the impact of the collection on your credit score, it can help improve your overall creditworthiness. It's always a good idea to monitor your credit report regularly, address any errors or discrepancies, and establish healthy credit habits to maintain or improve your credit standing.

Didier Malagies nmls#212566

DDA Mortgage nmls#324329

https://www.ddamortgage.com/blog




Ask a Mortgage Question

Use the form below and we will give your our expert answers!

203H Ask A Question

Start Your Loan with DDA today
Your local Mortgage Broker

Mortgage Broker Largo
See our Reviews

Looking for more details? Listen to our extended podcast! 

Check out our other helpful videos to learn more about credit and residential mortgages.

Should I lock in my interest rate with Tariffs and the environment we are in now

By Didier Malagies • May 26, 2025
Locking in your interest rate can be a smart move under the right circumstances—especially when there's economic uncertainty, like tariffs, geopolitical tension, or volatile inflation. Here are a few key considerations to help you decide: ✅ Reasons to Lock in Now: Rising Rate Environment: If inflation is persistent and the Fed continues to signal rate hikes (or holding rates higher for longer), mortgage and loan rates might increase. Market Volatility: Tariffs and global economic uncertainty can lead to unpredictable swings in rates. Locking in now protects you from upward movement. You’re Close to Closing: If you're within 30-60 days of needing the loan (e.g., buying a house), rate locks are usually worth it. Peace of Mind: Locking gives you certainty in an uncertain time, helping you budget better and avoid surprises. ❌ Reasons to Hold Off: You Expect Rates to Drop: If there's strong indication that rates will fall due to recession fears or easing inflation, waiting could save money. You're Not Ready to Act: If your closing is still months away or you're just shopping around, locking too early may be premature (and rate locks often have time limits and fees) tune in and learn more at https://www.ddamortgage.com/blog didier malagies nmls#212566 dda mortgage nmls#324329

American are living longer - but they aren't prepared for retirement impacts

By Didier Malagies • May 19, 2025
Recent research from the Nationwide Retirement Institute and The American College of Financial Services highlights a significant disconnect between Americans' increasing life expectancy and their financial preparedness for retirement. As more individuals are living into their 90s and beyond, many are at risk of outliving their savings due to inadequate planning. Key Findings Longevity Risk : The U.S. Census Bureau projects that the number of Americans living to 100 will quadruple by 2054. However, only 29% of Americans express a desire to live that long, primarily due to concerns about declining health and financial insecurity. Underestimating Lifespan : A significant portion of Americans underestimate their potential lifespan. Only 27% could accurately estimate the average longevity of a 65-year-old, leading to insufficient retirement planning. Financial Literacy Gaps : The Retirement Income Literacy Study reveals that many older Americans lack knowledge in key areas such as Social Security, investments, and longevity planning, which are crucial for retirement readiness. Delayed Retirement : Economic uncertainties, including inflation and market volatility, have led 76% of surveyed individuals to consider delaying retirement to ensure financial stability. Business Recommendation To address these challenges, experts suggest: Longevity Planning : Incorporate realistic life expectancy estimates into retirement planning to ensure savings last throughout one's lifetime. Financial Education : Enhance understanding of retirement-related financial topics, including Social Security benefits and investment strategies. Guaranteed Income Streams : Consider products like annuities that provide a steady income to mitigate the risk of outliving savings. Professional Guidance : Work with financial advisors to develop comprehensive retirement plans tailored to individual needs and longevity expectations. Also look and see what a Reverse Mortgage can help with as well Didier Malagies nmls212566 DDA Mortgage nmls324329

Where do I do Mortgages?

By Didier Malagies • May 19, 2025
I do Residential Mortgages in the State of Florida only, that is where I am licensed. Most of my business is from Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco County. I am doing more loans all over the State as time goes on. I love to go to my closings and will drive up to 1 hour to be there at your closing. I do Fnma/FHMC, FHA, VA, C/p, Nonqm mortgages. On the Commercial side the whole Country is open and if you are having difficulty with your lender and not going anywhere, go to www.ddamortgage.com and complete a form and I will get back with you. Technology has made it so easy to help get your mortgage processed and closed I am always available to help out and I answer your questions and teach you along the way tune in and learn at https://www.ddamortgage.com/blog didier malagies nmls#212566 dda mortgage nmls#324329 
Show More