Technically, you can buy a home with a 580, but "qualifying" and "affording" are two different things. Your credit score directly impacts your .

Approval becomes much harder. Lenders see more risk and may require a larger down payment or higher cash reserves. 🛠️ How to Boost Your Score Before You Apply

While there is no single "magic number" that guarantees a mortgage approval, your score dictates which loan programs you qualify for and, more importantly, how much interest you will pay over the next 30 years. 🏗️ The Minimum Requirements by Loan Type Different mortgage products have different "floors."

Don't open new credit cards or take out an auto loan right before applying for a mortgage.

If your score isn't quite where you want it, don't panic. Small moves can make a big difference in a few months: