Credit Score to Buy a House

What score you need by program, and what to do if you are close but not quite there.

The short answer

There is no single number. FHA loans generally start at 580 with 3.5% down, conventional loans at 620, VA loans have no set federal minimum though most lenders look for 580-620, and jumbo loans usually want 700 or higher. Your score also drives pricing, so moving up a tier before you apply can matter as much as qualifying at all.

Key things to know

  • FHA: 580+ with 3.5% down (500-579 with 10% down at some lenders)
  • Conventional: 620+ typical minimum
  • VA: no federal minimum; most lenders look for 580-620
  • Jumbo: 700+ in most cases
  • Pay down revolving balances and avoid new accounts before applying

    • Read the full guide

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