Conventional Credit Score Requirements

Yes, but you need 10% down instead of 3.5%. Most lenders require 580+ for the standard conventional program. Valley West Mortgage works with borrowers at all credit levels and can advise on the best path forward.

Higher scores get lower rates. A 760+ score might get 5.500% while a 580 score might get 6.500%. On a $400K loan, that difference is roughly $250/month or $90,000 over 30 years.

Yes. Pay bills on time, reduce credit card balances below 30%, dispute errors, and avoid new accounts. Most improvements take 30-90 days. Valley West can review your credit and recommend specific steps.

No. Higher credit scores qualify for better rates and terms. Borrowers with 760+ scores get the best conventional rates available, though the advantage over conventional loans diminishes at higher scores.

The conventional sets minimums (500 with 10% down, 580 with 5-20% down), but individual lenders can set higher minimums. Valley West Mortgage follows conventional minimums and works with borrowers across the credit spectrum.