Happy homebuyers. Getty Images. Some first-time homebuyers in California are about to get some much needed help from the state. This year's version of a state-funded program called Dream for All is offering up to $150,000 per buyer to help with expenses associated with buying a home.
Most conventional mortgages require first-time homebuyers to have a minimum credit score of 620 for approval. First-time homebuyers whose credit scores don't hit the standard minimum may still be able to qualify for a mortgage through FHA, VA or USDA programs.
In general, lenders don't want you to spend more than 43 percent of your income on a mortgage and any other debt payments, like student loans. With some first-time buyer programs, there are also income limits. These typically vary based on location and are often capped at 80 percent of the area's median income (AMI).
Insufficient Credit History Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 to qualify for a mortgage. Without enough active accounts in good standing, first-time buyers often fall short of this threshold. Maintaining timely payments and keeping credit card balances low is key to building credit.
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Many lenders and assistance programs apply a three-year rule. You count as a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a home or had your name on a mortgage agreement within the previous three years. What if I'm a first-time buyer and my partner isn't? You may still count as a first-time buyer.