Coldwell Banker Realty- Metrowest
Bo Lee, REALTOR, Coldwell Banker Realty- MetrowestPhone: (508) 292-0288
Email: [email protected]

How your credit score affects mortgage approval

by Bo Lee, REALTOR 12/18/2023

If you're planning to buy a house, managing your credit score is vital. Mortgage lenders use credit scores as a benchmark for qualification, and a lower score can hurt your chances of being approved for a mortgage.

Here are some more details about how credit scores affect your mortgage loan chances:



What should my score be before I apply for a regular mortgage?

The customary loan application process requires a credit score of at least 620. It's possible to get a mortgage with a lower score, but you may have a higher interest rate as a result.



How is your credit score determined for a mortgage?

The loan officer obtains a single credit report containing all three credit report types. The lenders may use your credit score or lower middle credit score to decide if a joint partner applies.



How can a good credit score help with mortgage approval?

Mortgage lenders require higher credit scores because they use it as a way to measure how well you handle outstanding debt. The higher your credit score is, the less risk you pose to their lending. You could end up saving thousands over the life of your loan and capitalize on a lower monthly payment.



Is it possible to get a home with bad credit?

It's possible to get a mortgage with a low credit score, but there are trade-offs to be aware of. With conventional loans, a lower credit score might require a higher down payment or private mortgage insurance.

Other loan options like VA loans or loans offered by the Federal Housing Administration have more flexibility when it comes to minimum credit score. However, these mortgage loans come with other specific requirements for approval.

Maintaining a good payment history and credit report will help you in more ways than just getting a mortgage. However, for a major purchase like a home, it's crucial to have the best possible financial standing before beginning the process.

About the Author
Author

Bo Lee, REALTOR

As a dedicated Real Estate professional, my goal is to provide the highest level of service to my clients. Since 2002, I have been proudly serving the Metrowest area and beyond as a REALTOR. I believe in offering comprehensive information to meet all your Real Estate needs. My website features a wide selection of online tools designed to provide you with the most current Real Estate information. I take great pride in assisting my clients in the utmost professional manner.

I hold the ASP (Accredited Staging Professional) designation, which allows me to assist in staging your home to market it in its best light. Additionally, I have an SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) designation, which has equipped me with the knowledge to work with seniors ready to move into their next chapter of living, possibly in a smaller home and/or a community with more social activities.

I welcome the opportunity to represent you in the sale or purchase of your next home!