Loan Program
Low Credit Score
Real solutions for credit scores below 620.
A lower credit score doesn't have to end your home-financing plans. Through FHA, non-QM, and specialty programs we find paths to approval for borrowers the big banks turn away — plus a clear roadmap to better terms over time.
Key highlights
- Programs for scores below 620
- Recent credit events considered
- Government and non-QM options
- A plan to refinance to better terms later
- Personal guidance through underwriting
Who it's for
- Borrowers with bruised or rebuilding credit
- Buyers after a recent financial setback
- Anyone declined by a traditional bank
Credit Score Guide
Where you stand — and your best path.
A lower credit score doesn't have to end your homeownership plans. Here's the clean breakdown of options by loan type, what lenders weigh beyond your score, and ways to improve it quickly.
Minimum credit scores by loan type
FHA Loan
580+ · 3.5% down · 500–579 · 10% down
- Most forgiving option
- Higher mortgage insurance
Conventional Loan
620 minimum
- Better rates above 660–680
- Much stricter on credit history
VA Loan (if eligible)
No official minimum · most lenders want 580–620
- No down payment
- Veterans and active-duty military
USDA Loan
Typically 640+
- Rural areas only
- No down payment
If your score is really low (500–580)
- FHA with 10% down
- Non-QM loans (bank-statement, DSCR, asset-based)
- Hard money or private lenders (higher rates, short term)
- Co-borrower or non-occupant co-signer
What lenders also weigh
- Strong income or cash flow
- Reserves in the bank
- Recent improvement in credit (last 12 months clean)
- Larger down payment
- No recent bankruptcies or foreclosures (or enough time passed)
Fast credit improvement (30–90 days)
- Pay credit cards below 30% utilization (ideally under 10%)
- Don't open new accounts
- Remove collections under $500 (some FHA lenders ignore them)
- Add a rapid rescore (lenders can do this)
Bottom line
- 580–620 score → FHA or Non-QM
- Below 580 → Private / Non-QM / bigger down payment
- Luxury or investment property → Non-QM or private lenders
Educational guidance only. Final eligibility, terms, and rate depend on the lender's underwriting, program guidelines, and your complete file.
Ready to explore a Low Credit Score loan?
One quick call with Warren and you'll know exactly what you qualify for — no obligation, no call center.