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How Much Credit You Should Establish To Buy A House?

Last modified: Jul 25, 2023

When buying a house, you need to figure out how much credit you need. But what is a good credit score, and what is the minimum credit score required to buy a house? Here, we’ll answer these questions and more. 

How Much Credit You Should Establish to Buy a House?

Credit scores can be a real turmoil even for those financially educated. However, even newbies understand that having a good credit score might increase the chances of buying a house you desire. It boosts your chances of qualifying for a better interest rate on a mortgage. Money management and financial stability are two habits of any responsible person.

What Is a Good Credit Score to Buy a House?

Everyone aims for a good credit score when buying a house, and for a good reason. Having a good credit score helps you get a better interest rate for the place you are willing to purchase. The higher the credit score, the better the interest rate. Overall, lenders consider a credit score of 620 or higher a good credit score. If you have an exceptional credit score, you’ll qualify for the best deals on the market.

What Is the Minimum Credit Score to Buy a House?

We have already discussed what a good credit score is. But not everyone may obtain an excellent credit score because of various circumstances, including your credit history, especially if you are a first-time buyer. Therefore, according to FICO, the minimum credit score for a first-time homebuyer is 620 if you go for a conventional loan. But if you go for an FHA loan, the minimum credit score can be 580 or lower. 

Factors That Lenders Consider

There is a high chance you’ll need a mortgage to buy a house, and you’ll need a lender to give it to you. 

There are several factors that lenders will consider regarding whether you qualify for a mortgage or not. Besides a good credit score, many lenders look for: 

  • Your debt-to-income ratio
  • How much money you’ve put down on a home (aka down payment)
  • Work history
  • The house’s value and condition

How to Save for a House?

We know that saving for a house is easier said than done. But it doesn’t have to be that way. As many as 6 million homes are sold in the US every year. If you have a solid saving plan and a good credit score, you won’t have to worry much. Even if you don’t have an outstanding credit score, there is still a way you can improve it and eventually save for the house of your dreams. 

Here are some of the best ways to do it: 

Automate and Maximize Savings

One of the best ways to save for a house is to automate your savings, especially if you have trouble managing your money. When automating your savings, you need to decide how much you are willing to save each month and contact the bank to authorize an automatic withdrawal. You can also set up a recurring transfer from your checking account to your savings account.

Use Robo-Advisor

Another way to automate your savings is using a robo-advisor where you can not only automate your savings but also invest at the same time, all in one platform.  

Save Raises and Windfalls

Those undecided about what credit score is needed to buy a house seek to improve it. So, whenever you get a raise at work or receive a windfall, such as a bonus or tax refund, put that money towards your house. It will help you reach your goal faster. 

Earn Extra Money

If you want to speed up the process of saving for a house, you can always try earning extra money. You could take on a temporary job or do some freelance work. 

  • Do some freelance work.

If your goal is to save as much money as possible for a house, freelancing could be your go-to option. There are various freelance sites where you can complete individual gigs and earn money from the comforts of your own home.

  • Look for a temporary job.

Another way to earn some extra money is by doing a temporary job. This could be working seasonal retail during the holidays or being a lifeguard in the summer. These jobs usually offer higher wages than your typical part-time job and can help you save.

Read more: Best passive income ideas

  • Track your progress.

No matter what method you use to save for your down payment, it’s important to track your progress. You can set up a spreadsheet or use a money tracking app to keep track of your savings. It will help you stay motivated and on track. 

Consider Downsizing

If you are struggling to save for a down payment, you may want to consider downsizing your lifestyle. This could mean moving to a smaller apartment or getting rid of your car. Downsizing can help you free up money that you can put towards your down payment. 

How Long Does It Take to Save for a House?

Every American dream starts with the dream job and the dream house. But, buying a house is not as easy as it sounds. 

Your income, the amount of money you will put in your down payment, the living standard in the state you live in, and the cost of the house you want to buy will all affect the duration of saving for a house. 

On average, Americans need around six years to save for a down payment on the house, but a few things may factor in and either increase or lower the saving period. 

Bottom Line 

Saving for a house is not easy, but it’s doable with some organization and planning. Establishing a good credit score will help you in the long run when buying a house since most lenders will look at your credit score before approving your loan. Hopefully, this article helped you learn how much credit you need to establish to buy a house.

Read more: 

FAQ

Is It True That You Must Establish Credit in Order to Buy a House?

No, you don't necessarily need to establish credit in order to buy a house. However, it will most likely be easier to get approved for a mortgage if you have good credit.


How Long Should You Build Credit Before Buying a House?

Generally, you should establish credit for at least two years before applying for a mortgage. It will help you get the best interest rates possible.


What Is a Good Way to Improve Your Credit Score?

There are a few ways to improve your credit score. One is to make sure you pay your bills on time. Another is to keep your credit utilization low. You can also get a mix of different types of credit, such as revolving and installment debt.


How Much Credit Should You Establish to Buy a House?

When pondering upon how much credit you should establish to buy a house, ideally, having a credit score of at least 620 should help you secure a loan for the house you want to buy. But even if you have a credit score lower than that, there is still a way to secure a loan and purchase a house. 


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