What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a House?
Some or all of the mortgage lenders featured on our site are advertising partners of NerdWallet, but this does not influence our evaluations, lender star ratings or the order in which lenders are listed on the page. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners.
Most mortgages, including conventional loans, require a credit score of 620 or higher.
It’s possible to get an FHA loan with a credit score as low as 500, but many lenders require higher scores.
Borrowers with higher credit scores get better rates and terms than those with low scores.
Table of Contents
Most mortgages, including conventional loans, require a credit score of 620 or higher.
It’s possible to get an FHA loan with a credit score as low as 500, but many lenders require higher scores.
Borrowers with higher credit scores get better rates and terms than those with low scores.
Often, a mortgage is the biggest loan you’ll take out in your lifetime, so it makes sense that lenders require a minimum credit score for mortgages. A good score suggests to lenders that you can make your payments on time.
If you have below average credit, you still have options when it comes to a mortgage. But if you have a higher credit score, you'll generally qualify for more loan options and lower interest rates.
Credit score requirements differ by lender and loan type. For example, conventional loans typically require a higher credit score than government-backed loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
Whether your credit is flawless or average, here’s what to expect when you apply for a mortgage.
Mortgage loans from our partners
on New American Funding
on New American Funding
Mortgage loans from our partners
on New American Funding
on New American Funding