What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage?
If you’re delving into your credit report because you’re hoping to secure a mortgage, you may wonder what credit score is ideal. Is there an optimum or minimum number you should be aiming for? In this guide, we’re going to do our best to answer exactly that. Your score is based on how you’ve managed previous debts or credit over the past six years.
Despite what you might think, there’s no specific number you need. However, there is a margin where a credit score becomes considered ‘bad’ or ‘poor’ and highlights a number of severe financial issues. These can include CCJs, bankruptcy or repossession.
Is my score good or bad?
Each of the credit reference agencies has its own scoring system. This can make things a little confusing, but we’re outlining what makes a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ credit score for each agency below.
Score varies from 0-999
Poor: Below 721
Good: 881 to 960
Excellent: 961 or above
Score varies from 0-700
Poor: Below 380
Good: 420 to 465
Excellent: Above 466
Score varies from 0-710
Poor: Below 566
Good: 604 to 627
Excellent: Above 628
What’s the minimum score you need?
There’s no minimum score required. However, the general rule of thumb is that the higher your score, the more likely you are to secure a mortgage. This is because lenders will see you as less of a risk.
You want to aim for a ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’ score where possible. This will open up more mortgage opportunities.
What should I do if my score is poor?
If your score is ‘poor’, ‘very poor’ or ‘bad’, you may struggle to find a suitable mortgage without support. Or, you may have to pay a higher interest rate or a larger deposit.
Your first port of call should be to speak to a professional financial advisor and Whole of Market mortgage broker. The Bad Credit Mortgage specialists at Agentis are ready to help you get your score back on track or help you find a lender that will work with your circumstances. Contact us today to arrange your free initial consultation.
