You can qualify with a score between 500 and 579 if you can provide a 10% down payment .
FHA rules allow sellers to pay up to 6% of the home's purchase price toward your closing costs. 2. VA Loans (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)
Buying a home with "bad credit" (typically defined as a FICO score below 620) is possible through several specialized government-backed and private programs available in 2026. These programs prioritize factors like stable income and down payment size over a perfect credit history. 1. FHA Loans (Federal Housing Administration)
If your score is at least 580, you may qualify for the minimum down payment of just 3.5% .
VA loans generally require no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI).