What Credit Score Do You Really Need to Buy a Home?

If you’re dreaming of homeownership, here’s what lenders really look for — and how ClearRiseCredit helps you get there.

What Credit Score Do Mortgage Lenders Want?

Here’s a breakdown of the most common score tiers and what they mean for homebuyers:

  • 760 and above: Excellent. You’ll get the best mortgage rates and terms.
  • 700–759: Very Good. Still qualifies you for strong loan options.
  • 640–699: Fair. Eligible for FHA and first-time buyer programs.
  • Below 640: Needs work. You may need help before qualifying for most home loans.

FICO vs. VantageScore — What’s the Difference?

FICO is what most lenders use. VantageScore is more common for free credit apps. ClearRiseCredit helps you improve both — with a focus on what mortgage lenders see.

How ClearRiseCredit Helps You Prepare

  • We break down your credit report line-by-line
  • Dispute inaccurate or outdated negative items
  • Create a custom action plan to build score & credit health
  • Connect you with trusted mortgage professionals

Ready to know where you stand?

Start Your Free Credit Review

Or book a consultation to find out what score you need — and how to get there.

Understanding Your Credit Score

ClearRiseCredit in Sacramento, California, is dedicated to helping you understand and improve your credit score. We believe knowledge is power, and understanding your credit score is the first step towards financial freedom.

Checking Your Own Score Won’t Hurt It

Pulling your own credit report is considered a soft inquiry and has zero impact on your score. In fact, reviewing it often helps catch errors and fraud early. ClearRiseCredit encourages regular credit report checks for our Sacramento clients.

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It’s Not Set in Stone

Your credit score changes based on your behavior. Good habits like making on-time payments and reducing debt can raise your score over time—sometimes faster than you think. With ClearRiseCredit, Sacramento residents can see real improvements in their credit scores.

The Power of Good Credit: More Than Just Numbers

A good credit score doesn’t just open financial doors—it transforms lives. Here’s the biggest impact we see: FREEDOM.

• Lower Interest Rates: You pay less to borrow money—saving thousands over time.
• Higher Approval Odds: Get approved for credit cards, homes, apartments, and auto loans without stress.
• Bigger Buying Power: Leverage your score to qualify for better deals, business loans, or even start investing.
• Peace of Mind: No more anxiety when a lender or landlord runs your credit. You know you’re in a strong position.
• Generational Impact: Good credit lets you model smart financial habits for your kids—and create opportunities for wealth, not just survival.

Ready to improve your credit?

(Still have questions?)

Email us at info@clearrisecredit.com

Visit www.ClearRiseCredit.com

Good credit = confidence, opportunity, and control over your future. That’s the ClearRiseCredit mission: to help people rise—credit first, life second.