What Credit Score Do I Need to Buy a House?

Minimum Credit Scores

You can buy a home with a lower score than many people expect.

• Conventional: 620+

• FHA: 580+ (sometimes 500–579 with higher down payment)

• VA: No official minimum, but most lenders want 580–600+

• USDA: Typically around 620

How Your Score Impacts Your Loan

• Better scores qualify for better rates

• Better scores reduce mortgage insurance

• Better scores offer more loan options

Quick Ways to Improve Your Score

• Pay credit cards down below 30 percent

• Avoid opening new accounts

• Don’t close long-standing accounts

• Avoid major purchases before pre-approval

A lender can run simulations to show how small changes affect your score.