Credit & Qualifying
Minimum Credit Score for a Mortgage by Loan Type
Typical minimum credit scores for FHA, VA, USDA, conventional and jumbo loans, how lender overlays work, and how your score affects rate and mortgage insurance.
Credit & Qualifying
Credit scores, debt-to-income ratios and what underwriters look for.
Credit & Qualifying
Debt-to-Income Ratio for a Mortgage: How Lenders Calculate It
How lenders calculate front-end and back-end debt-to-income ratios, which debts count, limits for FHA, VA, USDA and conventional loans, and how to lower your DTI.
Credit & Qualifying
How Student Loans Affect Mortgage Approval
How FHA, VA, USDA and conventional lenders count student loan payments, including $0 income-driven plans and deferred loans, and how to qualify.
Credit & Qualifying
Getting a Mortgage With a New Job: Employment History Rules
Can you get a mortgage after starting a new job? Learn the two-year history rule, offer letters, employment gaps, and commission or self-employment rules.
Credit & Qualifying
Rapid Rescoring: How to Boost Your Credit Score Before Closing
A rapid rescore updates your credit report within days after you pay down balances or fix errors. Learn how it works, what it costs, and when it pays off.
Credit & Qualifying
Do Mortgage Inquiries Hurt Your Credit? The Rate-Shopping Window
Shopping for a mortgage won't wreck your credit. Learn how the 14- to 45-day rate-shopping window works, soft vs. hard pulls, and how to shop smart.
Credit & Qualifying
Buying a Home After Bankruptcy: Waiting Periods by Loan Type
Mortgage waiting periods after Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy and foreclosure for FHA, VA, USDA and conventional loans, plus steps to rebuild credit.
Credit & Qualifying
Non-Occupant Co-Borrowers: Using a Parent to Qualify
A non-occupant co-borrower, often a parent, can add income to help you qualify for a mortgage. Learn the FHA and conventional rules, risks and alternatives.