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Temeka Thompson - DC Metro Realtor, Coach, Public Speaker
Temeka
Blog
Real Estate
    Sell my home
    Buy a home
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Work with Temeka
    Business Coaching
    Career Coaching
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    Online Academy
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  • Temeka
  • Blog
  • Real Estate
    • Sell my home
    • Buy a home
    • Veterans
  • Work with Temeka
    • Business Coaching
    • Career Coaching
    • Buy Real Estate with Temeka
    • Become an Agent
  • Products
    • Free Resources
    • Online Academy
  • Booking
  • Marriage Takeover
  • Women of Worth
Real Estate

What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage?

March 22, 2021by Temeka ThompsonNo Comments

What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage? | Simplifying The Market

According to data from the most recent Origination Insight Report by Ellie Mae, the average FICO® score on closed loans reached 753 in February. As lending standards have tightened recently, many are concerned over whether or not their credit score is strong enough to qualify for a mortgage. While stricter lending standards could be a challenge for some, many buyers may be surprised by the options that are still available for borrowers with lower credit scores.

The fact that the average American has seen their credit score go up in recent years is a great sign of financial health. As someone’s score rises, they’re building toward a stronger financial future. As more Americans with strong credit enter the housing market, we see a natural increase in the FICO® score distribution of closed loans, as shown in the graph below:What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage? | Simplifying The MarketIf your credit score is below 750, it’s easy to see this data and fear that you may not be able to qualify for a mortgage. However, that’s not always the case. While the majority of borrowers right now do have a score above 750, there’s more to qualifying for a mortgage than just the credit score, and there are still options that allow people with lower credit scores to buy their dream home. Here’s what Experian, a global leader in consumer and business credit reporting, says:

  • Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans: “With a 3.5% down payment, homebuyers may be able to get an FHA loan with a 580 credit score or higher. If you can manage a 10% down payment, though, that minimum goes as low as 500.”
  • Conventional loans: “The most popular loan type typically comes with a 620 minimum credit score.”
  • S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) loans: “In general, lenders require a minimum credit score of 640 for a USDA loan, though some may go as low as 580.”
  • S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) loans: “VA loans don’t technically have a minimum credit score, but lenders will typically require between 580 and 620.”

There’s no doubt a higher credit score will give you more options and better terms when applying for a mortgage, especially when lending is tight like it is right now. When planning to buy a home, speaking to an expert about steps you can take to improve your credit score is essential so you’re in the best position possible. However, don’t rule yourself out if your score is less than perfect – today’s market is still full of opportunity.

Bottom Line

Don’t let assumptions about whether your credit score is strong enough put a premature end to your homeownership goals. Let’s connect today to discuss the options that are best for you.

Content previously posted on Keeping Current Matters

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Mortgage rates play a significant role in your home search. As rates go up, they impact how much you’ll pay in your monthly mortgage payment, which directly affects how much you can comfortably afford. With mortgage rates on the rise, you’ve likely seen your purchasing power impacted already. Instead...
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There’s so much to know when buying your first h There’s so much to know when buying your first home or your second home.

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Coming into this year, most experts projected mortgage rates would gradually increase and end 2022 in the high three-percent range. It’s only April, and rates have already blown past those numbers. Freddie Mac announced last week that the 30-year fixed rate mortgage is already at 4.72%. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at realtor.com, tweeted on March 31, “Continuing on the recent trajectory, would have mortgage rates hitting 5% within a matter of weeks...
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In a recent report, Arch Capital Services explains how the ongoing trend of remote work can open up more options for homebuyers. “. . . This will enable those who are able to work from home on a part-time or hybrid basis to move slightly farther away from job centers. . . . For workers who secure full-time remote jobs, their place of residence will be determined by affordability and personal preferences.” Basically, working from home is great news if you’re a first-time buyer trying to find a home that meets your needs and...
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Hi, I'm Temeka. I'm a Mom, Wife, Realtor, and Coach living in the DC Metro area. Here I'll share all things real estate, coaching, marriage tips, and trends. Let's stay connected!

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