For many first-time home buyers, navigating the world of mortgages can be overwhelming, especially if you have a low credit score and need a first time home buyer loan for low credit. Understanding how credit scores affect your ability to buy a home is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore what constitutes a bad credit score, how it impacts your home buying journey, and how Loan Factory can assist you in securing a home loan despite your credit challenges.
FICO credit score ranges:
- Below 580: Bad credit
- 580 to 669: Fair credit
- 670 to 739: Good credit
- 740 or above: Excellent credit
What score is considered low credit?
Most mortgage lenders see a credit score under 620 as not so good. However, some homebuyers can still qualify for a home loan with a FICO score as low as 500, depending on the loan program. But remember, this can change based on the lender and the loan you want. If your credit score is low, it might be because you missed payments, have lots of debt on your credit cards, or deal with things like collections or bankruptcy.
With Loan Factory, Having a low credit score doesn't necessarily mean you can't buy a home. While it may limit your options and affect your interest rates, Loan Factory is always an available way for first-time home buyers with less-than-perfect credit.
Can I buy a house with low credit?
Yes, it's possible to buy a house with bad credit, but it may require some extra effort and strategic planning. Loan Factory understands the challenges faced by first-time home buyers with low credit scores and offers specialized assistance tailored to your unique situation.
Despite having bad credit, you can still achieve homeownership through specialized home loans designed for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit histories. These loans often have more lenient credit score requirements and may require a larger down payment or higher interest rates.
How to Get a Home Loan for Bad Credit:
If you're considering buying a home with bad credit, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of approval:
- Work on improving your credit score by paying bills on time and reducing outstanding debt.
- Save for a larger down payment to offset your low credit score.
- Consider government-backed loan programs like FHA loans, which are more flexible in their credit requirements.
- Seek assistance from Loan Factory, the #2 mortgage broker in the US for 2024, specializing in helping first-time home buyers with low credit scores secure affordable home loans.
First time buyers with low credit scores options
1. FHA loan: 500 credit score
- You can qualify for an FHA loan with a credit score as low as 500, with a 10% down payment, or 3.5% down if your score is 580 or above.
2. Non-qualified mortgage (Non-QM): 500 credit score
- Non-QM loans offer flexible lending criteria for those who don't meet conventional mortgage qualifications.
- These loans typically have higher interest rates compared to other types of loans.
3. VA loan: 580 credit score
- VA loans, available to veterans and military-affiliated borrowers, don't require a down payment or ongoing mortgage insurance payments.
- While there's no minimum credit score requirement, lenders usually prefer a score of 580 to 620.
- Conventional loans are the most common type of mortgage but typically require a credit score of at least 620.
- Borrowers with lower credit scores may face higher interest rates and fees.
5. USDA loan: 640 credit score
- USDA loans are for home buyers in qualifying rural areas and require a minimum credit score of 640.
- These loans offer zero-down payment options and competitive mortgage rates.
While you are a first time home buyer having a low credit score presents challenges, it shouldn't deter you from pursuing your dream of homeownership. With the right guidance and support from Loan Factory, you can overcome credit obstacles and find a home loan solution that fits your needs.
Ready to explore your options for first-time home buyer loans? Contact Loan Factory today to get started on your journey to homeownership. Don't forget to snag our First Time Home Buyer Checklist. Visit our website and check mortgage interest rates today or call us at 714-444-9999, your dream home is within reach!