What Is Minimum Credit Score To Buy House Official

500 minimum. A score of 500–579 requires a 10% down payment, while a score of 580+ allows for as little as 3.5% down.

620 is the standard industry minimum, though higher scores (740+) are needed to secure the most competitive interest rates.

“If you can get [your score] over 650, your terms improve dramatically.” Reddit · r/FirstTimeHomeBuyers Financial Impact of Your Score

“FHA is a great (and likely only) option for low down payment and credit scores Reddit · r/FirstTimeHomeBuyers

The minimum credit score to buy a house depends entirely on the loan type, ranging from for certain government-backed loans to 620 for standard conventional loans.

Experts and homeowners often recommend aiming higher than the bare minimum to avoid "onerous" terms.

Your credit score significantly dictates your interest rate. In 2026, a borrower with a score could save approximately $200 to $250 per month on a $400,000 mortgage compared to someone with a score in the low 600s. Over a 30-year term, this difference can amount to nearly $200,000 in total interest savings.

500 minimum. A score of 500–579 requires a 10% down payment, while a score of 580+ allows for as little as 3.5% down.

620 is the standard industry minimum, though higher scores (740+) are needed to secure the most competitive interest rates.

“If you can get [your score] over 650, your terms improve dramatically.” Reddit · r/FirstTimeHomeBuyers Financial Impact of Your Score

“FHA is a great (and likely only) option for low down payment and credit scores Reddit · r/FirstTimeHomeBuyers

The minimum credit score to buy a house depends entirely on the loan type, ranging from for certain government-backed loans to 620 for standard conventional loans.

Experts and homeowners often recommend aiming higher than the bare minimum to avoid "onerous" terms.

Your credit score significantly dictates your interest rate. In 2026, a borrower with a score could save approximately $200 to $250 per month on a $400,000 mortgage compared to someone with a score in the low 600s. Over a 30-year term, this difference can amount to nearly $200,000 in total interest savings.