VA loans might offer better benefits and relaxed guidelines; however, the starting process is just like any other mortgage. A decent credit score is all you need to walk through the process without facing much hassle. After serving years overseas, many veterans are yet to understand the good credit score. How much do you need to qualify a VA loan with low-interest rates?
Credit score for VA loan in Houston is a matter of a long discussion since the Department of Veterans Affairs does not require FICO scores. The lenders are responsible for setting the credit score guidelines so that potential borrowers can get the mortgage. Furthermore, no down payment and low FICO score requirements are a few perks of the loan program. The loan has been around for former and current military service members for years. And the best part is an eligible buyer can finance 100% of the home’s value. As you can see from the irresistible advantages, it is high time to educate yourself about the credit scores. Let’s go through the essential tips below.
Credit score rules for VA loan program
According to VA Pamphlet 26-7, the loan does not exactly have a minimum credit score requirement. As it depends on the lender, the buyer requires good credit without any risk. The private VA lender will have a different minimum that the other financial institutions might not follow. Two lenders can never be the same as the credit scores and terms differ on a large scale. Lenders always review the credit report and put a special focus on repayment history. The credit score is a reflection of the borrower’s willingness and capacity to repay.
If you apply with a bad credit
It is wise for the borrowers to start working on their credit scores before 12 months. When a buyer with low credit is interested in the loan, higher interest rates are common. A blemish-free credit report is a way to unlock a seamless experience. Even though the VA mortgages have zero down payments, you can put down 5% to reduce the funding fee.
When working with a VA-approved lender
The Department of Veterans Affairs does not directly finance the mortgage because it is a lender’s responsibility. The VA only works as an insurer that has only one task – to protect the lender in case the borrower defaults. For the VA loan programs, the lenders usually set 550 as the benchmark. Make sure, your credit score is not lower than 550 at all. Now, how do you know where your FICO score is at? Buyers can access a free credit report once a year. When you have the credit report at hand, comb over it, and check thoroughly. Errors in the report are common, and it takes time to solve the issue.
In case you are not eligible for the COE, you might have to check out alternatives. FHA loans are a great choice for buyers with low credit scores. So, ask your lender which option is suitable for your situation.
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