Yes, with an FHA loan. A 500-579 credit score qualifies for FHA with 10% down payment. Below 500, most lenders cannot approve a mortgage. Valley West Mortgage has solutions for most credit situations and can recommend credit improvement steps if needed.

An initial rate check or pre-qualification uses a soft pull with no credit impact. Full pre-approval requires a hard inquiry that may lower your score 2-5 points temporarily. Multiple mortgage inquiries within 14-45 days count as one inquiry.

Pay all bills on time, reduce credit card balances below 30% of limits, avoid opening new accounts, dispute errors on your credit report, and become an authorized user on a family member's old account. Most improvements take 30-90 days.

A 760+ credit score qualifies for the best available rates across all loan types. The difference between a 760 and 620 score on a $400,000 loan can be 1%+ in rate, equaling $250+/month and $90,000+ in total interest over 30 years.

The FHA does not set a minimum credit score. However, individual lenders set their own minimums — most require 580-620. Valley West Mortgage evaluates the full picture including compensating factors like savings, residual income, and home buying history.