While specific lender requirements can vary, these are the standard program minimums for 2026: 500 (with 10% down) or 580 (with 3.5% down).
Find available in your state?
A lower score usually leads to a higher interest rate and higher monthly Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) premiums.
Ask a family member with excellent credit to add you to an established account.
Review reports from Equifax , Experian , and TransUnion ; disputing errors can lead to a fast jump.
Individual lenders often set their own minimums (called "overlays") that are 20–40 points higher than the program minimum.
While specific lender requirements can vary, these are the standard program minimums for 2026: 500 (with 10% down) or 580 (with 3.5% down).
Find available in your state?
A lower score usually leads to a higher interest rate and higher monthly Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) premiums. minimum score to buy a house
Ask a family member with excellent credit to add you to an established account. While specific lender requirements can vary, these are
Review reports from Equifax , Experian , and TransUnion ; disputing errors can lead to a fast jump. While specific lender requirements can vary
Individual lenders often set their own minimums (called "overlays") that are 20–40 points higher than the program minimum.