Different mortgage programs have varying "floors" for eligibility. These requirements often depend on the size of your down payment. What Credit Score Do I Need to Buy a House? - Experian
In 2026, the credit score landscape for home buyers has shifted toward a more holistic view of financial health, though numerical milestones remain the standard gatekeepers for most loan programs. While a score as low as can technically open the door to homeownership through specific government programs, a score of 620 is generally considered the "tipping point" for a standard conventional mortgage. Credit Score Requirements by Loan Type