Paying house rent with a credit card is becoming more common by the day. There are both benefits and some disadvantages associated with the prospect – and understanding them beforehand is exemplary. We’re here to give you the full picture – pros and cons included, so that you can make an informed decision whether paying house rent with a credit card is a smart play or not.
The Positive Side of Things
Payment History
Payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score. Using a credit card to pay house rent and then clearing your balance in time enhances this history. Timely payments show lenders that you are reliable and this potentially boosts your credit score.
Diversifying Credit Mix
A mix of different types of credit like loans and credit cards can positively affect your score. Adding house rent to your credit card expenses diversifies your credit profile and contributes positively to about 10% of your overall score.
Earning Rewards
Several credit cards offer rewards like cash points, cashback, and discounts. Paying rent with your credit card turns a routine experience into something beneficial. However, an important aspect to keep in mind is that the rewards should be a bonus and not the primary reason for using your card.
The Other Side
High Credit Utilization
Credit utilization (or the percentage of your credit limit that you use) impacts 30% of your score. It can negatively impact your score so it’s imperative to keep this ratio low. Anywhere below 30% is the recommended figure.
Interest Charges
If you don’t pay off your credit card balance in full each month the interest charges can quickly outweigh any benefits that you receive. These charges can add up and eventually lead to higher overall costs and potential debt issues.
High Processing/Transaction Fees
Many house rental platforms charge a fee for credit card payments, usually around 2-3% of the rent amount. Over time these fees can add up and eat into any rewards or benefits you might earn.
Debt Accumulation
Leaning on credit cards for everyday needs without clearing those bills can quickly soar into debt and put a real squeeze on your finances.
Balancing the Pros and Cons
As a useful financial strategy – paying house rent with accredit card certainly has its perks. Enhancing your payment history, diversifying your credit mix, and earning rewards are just a few of them. However, there are certain downsides like increased credit utilization and the possibility of debt accumulation should not be ignored.
Thus, before deciding on using a credit card for house rent payments, first make sure that you are able to pay off the balance in full each month. This approach prevents interest charges and keeps your credit utilization in check. Also, be mindful of any fees that might diminish the benefits.
In conclusion, paying house rent with a credit card can boost your credit score if done wisely. It’s a strategy that requires discipline and careful consideration of your overall financial situation.