What Credit Score Do You Need To Buy A House?
There are many misconceptions about the credit score needed to buy a house. Recently, it was reported that 24% of renters believe they need a 780-800 credit score to be considered for a mortgage. The reality is they are misinformed!
Only 25% of the Americans have a FICO® Score between 740 and 800. Here is the breakdown according to Experian:
- 16% Very Poor (300-579)
- 18% Fair (580-669)
- 21% Good (670-739)
- 25% Very Good (740-799)
- 20% Exceptional (800-850)
Randy Hopper, Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending for Navy Federal Credit Union said,
“Just because you have a low credit score doesn’t mean you can’t purchase a home. There are a lot of options out there for consumers with low FICO® scores,”
There are many programs available with low or no credit score requirement. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) now requires a minimum FICO® score of 580 if you want to qualify for the low down payment advantage. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) does not set a minimum credit score requirement, but most lenders require a score of at least 640. Veterans Affairs (VA) loans have no credit score requirement.
As you can see, none of them are above 700!
It is true that the average FICO® score for all closed loans in January was 726, but there are plenty of people taking advantage of the low credit score requirements. Here is the average FICO® Score of closed FHA Loans since April 2012 according to Ellie Mae:
As you can see, that number has been dropping for the last seven years. As a matter of fact, the average FHA Purchase FICO® Score reported in January 2019 was 675!
One of the challenges is that Americans are unsure about their credit score. They just assume that it is too low to qualify and do not double check. Credit.com confirmed that only 57% of individuals sought out their credit score at least once last year.
FICO® reported,
“Since October 2009, the average year-over-year FICO® Score has steadily and consistently increased, from a low of 686 in 2009 to the latest high of 704 as of 2018.”
Here is the increase in the average US FICO® Score over the same period of time as the graph earlier.
Bottom Line
At least 84% of Americans have a score that will allow them to buy a house. If you are unsure what your score is or would like to improve your score in order to become a homeowner, let’s get together to help you set a path to reach your dream!
Over 31% of Income Goes to Housing in Utah
Utah ranked No. 10 in a national study of states with the highest housing costs. Housing expenses in Utah take up 31.71% of the median monthly income. This may surprise residents, as home prices have surged since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Many prospective...
Tips for Selling Your Home After the Holidays
Post-holiday market activity shrinks inventory and boosts buyer interest—price competitively to maximize offers. Declutter, depersonalize, and keep your home clean inside and out to make a great first impression
Why Renters Insurance Is a Must-Have in 2025
Renters insurance is crucial in 2025, offering essential protection for tenants' assets and liabilities. It covers personal belongings against theft, fire, and natural disasters.
Social Security tax to be cut for Utahns making $90K or less
Utah lawmakers are proposing tax reductions for the fifth consecutive year, including eliminating the Social Security tax for older residents earning $90,000 or less and reducing the income tax rate from 4.55% to 4.5%. They aim to provide $127 million in tax relief,...
5 Ways to Pay Less in Taxes on Real Estate Investments
Keep detailed records of all property expenses, including rent, maintenance, and insurance, to support tax deductions.Use the 1031 exchange strategy to defer 100% of taxes by reinvesting in like-kind properties legally.
Utah’s 2024 economy broke records, but can 2025 growth keep up?
In 2024, Utah's home prices reached near-record highs despite a slight drop in 2023, while high mortgage rates hindered new buyers. The state's economy grew, with a population increase of 1.5% and job growth at 1.7%. However, unemployment rose to 3.1%. Over...
Staged Property: The Hidden Risks
Staged Property: The Hidden Risks - Buyer Beware In the dynamic realm of real estate, the allure of staged properties often captivates potential buyers, presenting spaces in their most attractive light and promising a dreamlike living scenario. However, beneath the...
Buying a House With Tenants? Know Your Rights
If a lease exists, it remains valid, preventing rent hikes or evictions until its term expires. Want tenants to move out? You must negotiate, buy them out, or ensure vacancy before purchase.
Smart Timeline Strategies for Selling Your Home
Selling a home takes 8-12 weeks, including 1-2 weeks for prep, 3-4 weeks for listing, and 4-6 weeks for closing. Preparation is crucial; allocate 3-5 days for decluttering, staging, and 1-2 days for professional photography.
SCAM ALERT: Fraudulent Tax Collection Letters Targeting Utah Taxpayers
The Utah State Tax Commission warns taxpayers about a fraudulent letter circulating in Utah, falsely claiming unpaid state taxes. The letter resembles an official notice and threatens legal action if payment is not made. Taxpayers are advised to verify the...