You may still qualify, but you will typically need to provide a 10% down payment .
What Credit Score is Required to Buy a House? (2026 Guide) The short answer is that to buy a home. Instead, the score you need depends on the type of loan you choose. While some programs allow scores as low as 500 , having a score of 620 or higher opens up the most common mortgage options. 1. FHA Loans: Best for Lower Credit (500–580+) what credit score is required to buy a house
These are the most common mortgages and aren't backed by the government. You may still qualify, but you will typically
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and are designed to help buyers who may not qualify for traditional financing. Instead, the score you need depends on the
Qualifies you for the minimum down payment of just 3.5% .
Most lenders (like Rocket Mortgage ) set their own internal minimums, often at 580. 2. Conventional Loans: The Standard Choice (620+)
Real Estate #11 – What credit score is required to buy a house?