credit / home buying / The Home Buying Experience

The Credit Score Myth That’s Keeping Buyers on the Sidelines

Many renters believe they need perfect credit to buy a home—but that belief is often what’s holding them back.

A recent survey shows 42% of Americans think excellent credit is required to qualify for a mortgage. In reality, while today’s average buyer may have a higher score, many recent homebuyers qualified with less-than-perfect credit.

According to the New York Fed, about 10% of buyers had credit scores around 660. That means buying a home may still be possible—even if your score isn’t where you want it to be.

home buyer credit

There’s no universal credit score required to buy a home. As FICO explains, lenders consider multiple factors, including income, savings, debt, and overall financial stability—not just your score.

If credit concerns have been keeping you on the sidelines, it may be time to take a closer look at your options.

Bottom Line

Your credit score matters—but it doesn’t have to be perfect to get started.

Not sure where you stand?

Talk with a Jet Direct Mortgage expert to understand your options and what your next step could be. You don’t need all the answers—just the right place to start.

Source: Keeping Current Matters