One of the most common questions we hear: "What credit score do I need to buy a house?" The answer depends on the loan type — and the score you need to qualify is often different from the score you need to get the best rates.

Minimum Score by Loan Type

FHA Loans: Minimum 580 with 3.5% down. 500–579 with 10% down. Lenders often add their own overlay requirements of 620+.

Conventional Loans: Minimum 620. For the best rates and no PMI, target 740+.

VA Loans: No VA minimum, but most lenders require 580–620.

USDA Loans: Minimum 640 for guaranteed loans.

Qualifying Score vs. Best Rate Score

The difference between a 620 and a 740 can mean 0.5%–1.5% higher interest rate. On a $300,000 mortgage over 30 years, that's $30,000–$90,000 more paid.

How to Get Mortgage-Ready

  • Pay credit card balances to under 9% utilization
  • Dispute any inaccurate negative items
  • Avoid new credit inquiries for 6 months before applying
  • Keep all accounts current with no late payments