 TITLE: What Is a Subprime Mortgage? CONTENT: Consider Improving Your Credit Score\n------------------------------------\nIf a subprime mortgage is all you qualify for today, and you're in a position to wait a year (or longer) before financing your first home, another option is to take steps today to improve your credit. That's also a good idea if you choose to pursue a subprime mortgage today with the goal of refinancing years from now. (Heck, it's a good idea if you plan to borrow money at any point in the future, for any reason.)\nAdopting habits today that promote improvements in your credit reports and credit scores can bring many benefits. Qualifying for better terms on loans and credit cards could save you thousands of dollars, but there are other advantages to good credit as well, including reduced insurance premiums and lower security deposits on apartment leases and on car and equipment rentals. END