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    Credit Repair Basics

    What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage

    By Credit Booster Team | Published April 10, 2026 | Updated April 11, 2026

    Mortgage credit score requirements vary by loan type. Learn the minimums for FHA, VA, conventional, and jumbo loans. Step-by-step guide from Credit Booster

    Mortgage Score Requirements

    Loan Type Minimum Score Best Rate Score
    |-----------|--------------|----------------|
    FHA 580 (3.5% down) 740+
    VA No official minimum 620+ preferred
    Conventional 620 740+
    Jumbo 700-720 760+
    USDA 640 680+

    Which Score Do Mortgage Lenders Use?

    Mortgage lenders use specific FICO models:

  1. Equifax: FICO Score 5
  2. Experian: FICO Score 2
  3. TransUnion: FICO Score 4

    4. They take the middle score of all three bureaus. If only two are available, they use the lower one.

    How to Prepare

  4. Check your mortgage-specific FICO scores
  5. Dispute any errors at least 3-6 months before applying
  6. Don't open new accounts in the 6 months before applying
  7. Pay down credit cards to under 10% utilization
  8. Don't close any accounts

    9. AK

    Written by

    Alexander Katsman

    Credit & Finance Expert

    Alexander Katsman has since 2009 of experience in the credit and finance industry. He has helped thousands of clients improve their credit scores and secure financing for their businesses.

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