Ways to improve my report- advice desperately wanted!

Beagle_lady

Hey people. Just need some advice.
My score is currently very low. I've had some tough times and I've made some mistakes with money. I went through a DMP and then ended it and settled some debts myself. All I have left now is two catalogues and a payday loan that I defaulted on but set up an agreed payment plan. Oh and a large overdraft.
I really want to raise my score up as it's very low. I have a mortgage and have never ever missed a payment. I want a bigger house within the next two years but have no chance based on current status?
Any tips on where to start? What should I prioritise?
Someone said my use of payday loans and my partial settlements will keep my score down for a long time. Is this true?

Any advice will be gratefully received. I am desperate to improve things purely for mortgage reasons.

Thanks
K

stator

Don't worry about your "score" it doesn't exist, all lenders will use different criteria.
I would concentrate on clearing any debts that are under repayment plans. Only once those sorts of things are in the past can you think about a new mortgage.
And of course avoid payday lenders.
An overdraft isn't such a big problem, as long as you are within your limit. But of course it's better not to have one at all.

Thrugelmir

Besides clearing your existing debts. Lenders will wish to see managing your personal finances for a period of time. Lower your expectations for a while. Perhaps set an objective of overpaying the mortgage as the next step. Then reappraise the situation then.
Burdening yourself with never ending credit commitments may not be the best policy.