: If you are a veteran or active-duty service member, you may qualify with a score as low as 550 through specialized lenders like Freedom Mortgage .
: Providing more cash upfront reduces the lender's risk and can sometimes compensate for a lower credit score. i want to buy a house but have poor credit
: Aimed at rural and suburban buyers with low-to-moderate incomes, these may offer flexible credit requirements, though specific location and income limits apply. Strategies to Improve Approval Odds : If you are a veteran or active-duty
: Be aware that once your mortgage is finalized, your credit score may temporarily drop by 15 to 40 points as the new debt is reported. Best Mortgage Lenders For Bad Credit in April 2026 - CNBC Strategies to Improve Approval Odds : Be aware
: A lower credit score generally results in higher interest rates. For example, while you can get a mortgage at 620, you typically need a score of 760 to unlock the most competitive market rates.
: Non-Qualified Mortgages don't follow standard federal rules. They are designed for buyers with unique financial situations, such as recent bankruptcy or poor credit, though they often come with higher interest rates.
: Adding a person with strong credit and steady income to your application can help you secure a loan you wouldn't qualify for alone.