Navigating home loans with less-than-perfect credit can feel limiting, but there are still viable pathways to homeownership in the US. In my 13+ years as a mortgage loan originator, I’ve seen how the right strategy—and understanding your options—can make a big difference. While the average US mortgage holder has a credit score of 711, and most fall between 661 and 850, it’s still possible to secure a home loan below these numbers. Conventional lenders often look for scores around 620, but government-backed loans can offer flexibility, especially if you can increase your down payment. For some programs, even a modest score with a larger down payment—sometimes about 10%—can open doors. Veterans may have access to VA loans with no down payment required. To boost your approval odds, consider saving more for your down payment, keeping your debt-to-income ratio at or below 36%, reviewing your credit for errors, lowering your credit card balances, and staying current on payments. When you’re ready, compare several preapprovals within a 14-day period and ensure payments won’t exceed 30% of your income or compromise your savings. My specialty is matching borrowers to the programs that best fit their unique financial stories, so you can make informed, empowered decisions on your homeownership journey.