What is the minimum credit score I need to buy a house?

You will need at least at least the middle credit score of 640 or higher to buy a house. If you’re getting mortgage loan financing, such as an FHA loan or a USDA loan, the middle credit score needs to be 640 or higher. However, if you’re going with conventional financing, and you have a down payment of 20%, a 620 middle credit score is what’s needed to purchase a house.

RELATED MORTGAGE ADVICE FROM SCOTT SHELDON

When You Should Rent and Not Buy a House

Buying a home can build long-term wealth, but not every buyer should purchase right now. Learn when renting may make more financial sense, including career changes, short moves, limited savings, high debt, and a stretched monthly budget.

Why Does My Mortgage Lender Keep Asking for the Same Documents?

Repeated mortgage document requests are frustrating, but they usually involve updated information, missing pages, or follow-up questions needed before closing.

New Fannie Mae Departing Residence Rental Income Rules: What Homebuyers Need to Know

Fannie Mae’s 2026 departing-residence update changes how rental income may be documented when you keep your current home as a rental and buy another primary residence.

How to Buy a Home With a Financed Down Payment

A financed down payment program may help qualified buyers purchase with little or no down payment. Learn the payment tradeoffs and who it may fit.

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