There's no single magic number — but most buyers can qualify in the low-to-mid 600s, and a higher score mostly affects your rate, not whether you can buy.
Score isn't the whole story
- FHA: flexible credit minimums and down payments as low as 3.5% — a strong path for first-time and credit-rebuilding buyers.
- Conventional: usually 620+, with the best pricing reserved for higher scores.
- The rest of the picture: debt-to-income ratio, steady income, and savings often matter as much as the score itself.
If your score isn't where you want it, small moves — paying down card balances and not opening new accounts before applying — can help quickly. I can connect you with trusted local lenders for a no-pressure review.
For the first-time path, see my FHA buyer guide for California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy with a 600 credit score?
Often yes, especially through an FHA loan, which can accept scores as low as 580 (or 500 with more money down). A 600 may mean a higher rate, but it doesn't lock you out of homeownership.
Does checking my score hurt it?
Checking your own score is a soft pull and does not hurt it. A lender's hard inquiry has a small, temporary effect, and shopping multiple lenders within a short window usually counts as one inquiry.
Will a higher score save me money?
Yes — a stronger score generally earns a lower interest rate, which can save tens of thousands over the life of the loan. It rarely changes whether you qualify, but it changes what you pay.
