What credit score do you need to buy a house? Minimums by loan type
The short answer
Typical minimum credit scores are 620 for conventional loans, 580 for FHA loans with 3.5% down (500 with 10% down), no VA-set minimum for VA loans though many lenders want about 620, about 640 for USDA loans at many lenders, and often 700 or higher for jumbo loans. Higher scores usually earn lower rates and cheaper mortgage insurance.
| Loan type | Typical minimum score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | 620 | Best pricing usually at 740 and above |
| FHA | 580 (3.5% down); 500 to 579 (10% down) | Many lenders set their own floor, often 580 to 620 |
| VA | No VA minimum | Lenders commonly look for about 620 |
| USDA | About 640 at many lenders | Lower scores may need manual underwriting |
| Jumbo | Often 700+ | Varies widely by lender |
How your score changes your cost
On conventional loans, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac charge loan-level price adjustments that rise as scores fall, and PMI premiums are also score-based. Moving from 660 to 740 can lower your rate and your mortgage insurance at the same time. FHA pricing is less sensitive to score, which is one reason FHA can be cheaper for borrowers with scores in the 600s.
Ways to raise your score before applying
- Pay credit card balances down, ideally below 30% of each limit, and below 10% if you can.
- Pay every bill on time. One late payment can drop a score significantly.
- Dispute errors on your reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Avoid opening new accounts or closing old ones in the months before you apply.
- Ask your loan officer about a rapid rescore, which can update your score in days after you pay down a balance.
Common questions
Which credit score do mortgage lenders use?
Lenders pull scores from the credit bureaus and typically use the middle score of three, or the lower of two. For couples, lenders often use the lower borrower's qualifying score.
Does checking my own credit lower my score?
No. Checking your own credit is a soft inquiry and does not affect your score.