Buying Tips

Your credit score plays a big role in the homebuying process. It’s one of the key factors lenders look at to determine which loan options you qualify for and what your terms might be. But there’s a myth about credit scores that may be holding some buyers back. The Myth: You Need To Have Perfect Credit According to Fannie Mae, only 32% of potential homebuyers have a good idea of what credit score lenders actually require. That means two-thirds of buyers don’t actually know what lenders are looking for – and most overestimate the minimum credit score needed. The Reality: Perfect Isn’t Necessary But the truth is, you don’t need perfect credit to become a homeowner. To see the average score, by loan type, for recent homebuyers check out the graph below: There is no set cut-off score across the board. As FICO explains: “While many lenders use credit scores like FICO Scores to help them make lending decisions, each lender has its own strategy, including the level of risk it finds acceptable. There is no single “cutoff score” used by all lenders, and there are many additional factors that lenders may use . . .” So, even if your credit score isn’t as high as you’d like, you may still be able to get a home loan. Just know that, even though you don’t need perfect credit to buy a home, your score can have an impact on your loan options and the terms you’re able to get. Work with a trusted lender who can walk you through what you’d qualify for. Simple Tips To Improve Your Credit Score If you want to open up your options a bit more after talking to a lender, here are a few tips from Experian and Freddie Mac that can help give your score a boost: 1. Pay Your Bills on Time This includes everything from credit cards to utilities and other monthly payments. A track record of on-time payments shows lenders you’re responsible and reliable. 2. Pay Down Outstanding Debt Reducing your overall debt not only improves your credit utilization ratio (how much credit you’re using compared to your total limit) but also makes you a lower-risk borrower in the eyes of lenders. That makes them more likely to approve a loan with better terms. 3. Hold Off on Applying for New Credit While opening new credit accounts might seem like a quick way to boost your score, too many applications in a short period can have the opposite effect. Focus on improving your existing accounts instead. Bottom Line Your credit score doesn’t have to be perfect to qualify for a home loan. The best way to know where you stand? Work with a trusted lender to explore your options.

The Truth About Credit Scores and Buying a Home

Your credit score plays a big role in the homebuying process. It’s one of the key factors lenders look at to determine which loan options you qualify for and what your terms might be. But there’s a myth about credit scores that may be holding some buyers back. The Myth: You Need To Have Perfect Credit According to Fannie Mae, only 32% of potential homebuyers have a good...

What To Save for When Buying a Home

What To Save for When Buying a Home

Knowing what to budget for when buying a home may feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the costs you may encounter upfront, you can take control of the process. Here are just a few things experts say you should be thinking about as you plan ahead. 1. Down Payment Saving for your down payment is likely top of mind. But how much do you really need? A common misconception...

Get Ready To Buy a Home in 2025

Get Ready To Buy a Home in 2025

If buying a home is on your goal sheet this year, here’s how to make it happen. Focus on improving your credit, planning for your down payment, getting pre-approved, and prioritizing your wish list. But first, let’s connect so you have expert advice every step of the...

New Year, New Home: How To Make It Happen in 2025

New Year, New Home: How To Make It Happen in 2025

This is the time when a lot of people take a moment to reflect and set their goals for this year. And as you picture what you want your 2025 to look like, one thing that may pop into your mind is the vision of you in a new home. But how do you get there? And where do you start? Here’s some advice that can help you get the ball rolling. Focus on Your Why To lay the foundation, you need to focus on...

Simple Steps To Help You Save for Your First Home

Simple Steps To Help You Save for Your First Home

Turning a dream into reality starts with one thing: a plan. And if buying your first home is on your list of goals, now’s the perfect time to put a plan in motion to help you save. And the best part? Reaching your savings goal doesn’t mean making huge sacrifices overnight – small, consistent steps can get you there over time. Here are a few strategies that can help speed up the process. Step 1:...

Infographic titled 'The Truth About Down Payments,' debunking the misconception that buyers need to put 20% down. It highlights that median down payments are 9% for first-time homebuyers and 18% for all buyers. The infographic explains that some loans require as little as 3.5% or 0% down and features stats on down payment assistance programs, with the average benefit being $17,000. Includes resources for more information.

The Truth About Down Payments

There’s a misconception going around that you have to put 20% of the purchase price down when you buy a home. But the truth is, many people don’t put down that much unless they’re trying to make their offer more competitive. And if you want to give your savings a boost, look into down payment assistance. There are thousands of programs that offer an average benefit of nearly $17,000. To learn more...

The Biggest Perks of Buying a Home This Winter

The Biggest Perks of Buying a Home This Winter

Waiting for perfect market conditions often means missing out. Because what you may not realize is, if you’re ready and able to buy, this time of year could actually give you an edge. Here’s why. As the weather cools down, the housing market can too – and that works in your favor. You Likely Won’t Feel as Rushed Homes tend to take a little longer to sell during this time of year. Data from...

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores

What Homebuyers Need To Know About Credit Scores

Data shows 7 out of 10 prospective homebuyers don’t know the minimum credit score required by lenders or that it varies by lender and loan type. According to Experian, the range is anywhere from 500 to 700 for the minimum credit score. That means you don’t need perfect credit to buy a home. Your credit score is important – but that doesn’t mean it needs to be perfect. Work with a lender to learn...

The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes

The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes

When planning a move, a newly built home might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But with more brand-new homes on the market and builders focusing on smaller, more affordable options, this type of home may just be the key to crossing the homebuying finish line. Here's why a new build is worth considering – and how an agent can help you find one that meets your needs and your budget. 1....

How Co-Buying a Home Helps with Affordability Today

How Co-Buying a Home Helps with Affordability Today

Buying a home in today’s market can feel like an uphill battle – especially with home prices and mortgage rates putting pressure on your budget. If you’re feeling stuck, co-buying could be one way to help you get your foot in the door. Freddie Mac says: “If you are an aspiring homeowner, buying a home with your family or friends could be an option.” But there are some things you'll...