If your credit score isn't where you want it to be, these programs are often the most accessible paths to homeownership:
Buying with a lower score often comes with trade-offs that affect your long-term costs: can i still buy a house with bad credit
: If your score is 580 or higher, the down payment requirement drops to just 3.5% . If your credit score isn't where you want
: There is no official minimum score, but scores of 640 or higher often receive automated approval. Lower scores may require manual underwriting. : A family member with strong credit can
: A family member with strong credit can sometimes help you qualify for better terms.
: Lenders view lower scores as higher risk and charge higher rates to compensate.
: You can qualify with a score as low as 500 if you have a 10% down payment .