Credit Score Worries? Here’s How You Can Still Qualify for a Mortgage
- Alexi Mencio
- Sep 5, 2025
- 2 min read
One of the biggest misconceptions about buying a home is that you need perfect credit to qualify. The truth? Many borrowers become homeowners every year with less-than-ideal scores — thanks to flexible loan programs and expert guidance.
At Trust Lending, we help people overcome credit concerns and find the right path to homeownership. Here’s how you can qualify even if your score isn’t where you want it to be.
1. Understand What Lenders Look For
While credit score is important, it’s only one part of the equation. Lenders also review:
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): How much of your income goes toward debt.
Employment History: Stable income can help offset a lower score.
Down Payment Amount: A larger down payment may improve approval odds.
2. FHA Loans: A Popular Option for Lower Credit Scores
FHA loans are designed to help borrowers with modest credit.
Minimum credit score: 580 with 3.5% down
Scores as low as 500 with 10% down may still qualify
Flexible guidelines for debt-to-income ratios
This makes FHA one of the most accessible programs for borrowers rebuilding credit.
3. VA Loans: Credit Flexibility for Veterans
VA loans don’t have a strict minimum credit score. Many lenders approve borrowers with scores in the low-to-mid 600s — sometimes even lower. For veterans and service members, this program is one of the most powerful tools for homeownership.
4. Non-Traditional Loan Options
Trust Lending also offers loan programs for unique borrower situations:
Bank Statement Loans: Perfect for self-employed borrowers who can’t show income traditionally.
Non-QM Loans: Designed for those with recent credit events, like bankruptcy or foreclosure.
DSCR Loans: For investors, approval is based on property income, not personal credit.
5. Tips to Improve Your Credit Before Applying
Even small changes can make a difference:
Pay down credit card balances to reduce utilization.
Avoid opening new credit accounts right before applying.
Review your credit report and dispute errors.
Make consistent, on-time payments.
A less-than-perfect credit score doesn’t have to keep you from becoming a homeowner. With the right loan program and a lender who understands your situation, you may be closer to approval than you think.
At Trust Lending, we’ve helped countless borrowers qualify despite credit challenges. Our mission is to find solutions — not roadblocks.
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