Can You Buy a Home with a 600 Credit Score?

So, you’ve got a credit score hovering around 600, and you’re wondering if homeownership is still on the table. Let’s cut to the chase: Yes, you can buy a home with a 600 credit score! While it’s not a golden ticket to every loan program, it’s absolutely possible with the right strategy. In fact, last month, 22% of funded loans here at 14 Days to Close had scores between 600–679? You’re in good company!

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Meet Your New Best Friend - FHA Loans

If your credit score is 580+, you can qualify for an FHA loan with just 3.5% down. But wait—even if you’re sitting at 600, some lenders will work with you (though you might need a slightly higher down payment). FHA loans are like the Swiss Army knife of mortgages: flexible, forgiving, and designed for real humans. Check out our guide on FHA Requirements for more info.

Down Payment Assistance Programs

While over 2,000 down payment assistance programs exist nationwide, the Sunshine State boasts its own treasure trove of local opportunities perfect for palm tree-loving homebuyers. In fact, Florida alone has over 100 statewide and regional programs designed to help you plant roots—like the Florida HFA’s FL Assist program, which offers up to $10,000 in down payment assistance (that’s almost enough for a Disney annual pass!). Explore all your options on our Florida Down Payment Assistance guide.

Credit Scores Are Like Plants

Think of your credit score as a houseplant. Water it (pay bills on time), give it sunlight (keep credit utilization under 30%), and prune the dead leaves (dispute errors). Small changes can boost your score quickly. Consult your friendly neighborhood CPA and brush up on DIY financial strategies starting with NerdWallet's How to Build Credit Fast article.

When Lenders Say “Maybe,” You Say “Let’s Talk”

Not all lenders are created equal. Some specialize in working with borrowers in the 600s. For instance, did you know that USDA loans (yes, the ones for rural areas) sometimes accept scores as low as 580? Or that VA loans (for veterans and military families) don’t have a strict minimum score? Shop around, ask questions, and don’t settle. At 14 Days to Close, we'll happily share our screens to show you exactly what

Higher Scores = Better Rates

Yes, a 600 score might mean slightly higher interest rates. But here’s the silver lining... Once you’re in your home, you can refinance later when your score improves. Imagine swapping your “starter rate” for something sweeter in a few years. It’s like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone—same calls, better features!

Your 600 Credit Score Homework

Check Your Credit Report: Head to AnnualCreditReport.com for free weekly reports.
Play “What If?”: Use our free mortgage calculator to estimate monthly payments on your dream house.
Chat with a Pro: Seriously - just call us! We specialize in turning “maybe” into “yes.”

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You’ve Got This!

Buying a home with a 600 credit score isn’t a pipe dream. Need proof? Last month, 14 Days to Close funded loans with scores as low as 617 (and multiple in the 600s!). Your score is just one piece of the puzzle.

Connect with 14 Days to Close for personalized guidance. We’ll help you navigate loans, assess your credit, and close faster than you can say “Welcome home!”