Can I Get a Mortgage with a 520 Credit Score?
The Short Answer
A 520 credit score is below the typical minimum of 620 for a mortgage. Approval is very difficult at this score, and you would benefit significantly from credit repair before applying.
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Understanding a 520 Credit Score for Mortgages
A 520 credit score falls in the "poor" range according to FICO scoring models. This does not mean zero options, but you will face more obstacles and higher costs when seeking a mortgage.
Mortgage Options by Credit Score
Different mortgage programs have different minimum requirements:
- FHA Loans: Minimum 500 (10% down) or 580 (3.5% down). You would need a 10% down payment at your current score.
- Conventional Loans: Typically require 620+. You would need to improve by 100 points.
- VA Loans: No official minimum, but most lenders want 580-620.
- USDA Loans: Most lenders want 640+.
How to Improve Your Score Before Applying
- Dispute inaccurate negative items. Removing one incorrect collection or late payment can boost your score by 20-50 points.
- Pay down credit card balances. Get below 30%, ideally below 10%, for quick gains.
- Become an authorized user. Adds positive history to your report.
- Avoid new hard inquiries. Each application can lower your score by 5-10 points.
- Set up automatic payments. Payment history is 35% of your FICO score.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Focus on raising your score by at least 100 points to reach the typical minimum for mortgage approval.
Dispute any inaccurate negative items on your credit report, this is the fastest way to boost your score.
Pay down credit card balances to below 30% of your limit to improve your utilization ratio.
Consider a secured credit card or credit-builder loan to add positive payment history.
Get a free credit report review from Credit Booster to identify exactly which items are hurting your score.
Ready to Improve Your Credit Score?
Credit Booster challenges inaccurate items across all 3 credit bureaus. Avg time to first dispute response: 27 days. Outcomes vary by individual credit profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really get a mortgage with a 520 credit score?
It is very difficult to get a mortgage with a 520 credit score. Most lenders require a minimum of 620. Some specialized lenders may work with lower scores at higher interest rates. Your best option is to improve your credit first.
What interest rate can I expect on a mortgage with a 520 score?
With a 520 credit score, expect interest rates 3-8% higher than borrowers with good credit (700+). On a mortgage, this could mean an extra $200-500/month. Improving your credit before applying is strongly recommended.
How long does it take to improve my credit score from 520?
The timeline depends on what is hurting your score. Disputing inaccurate negative items can show results in 30-45 days. Paying down high credit card balances can improve your score within 1-2 billing cycles. On average, Credit Booster clients see meaningful improvement within 27 days of starting the program.
What is the minimum credit score for a mortgage?
FHA loans allow scores as low as 500 (with 10% down) or 580 (with 3.5% down). Conventional mortgages typically require 620+. VA and USDA loans have no official minimum but most lenders want 580-620.