What credit score do I need to buy a house?

Conventional loans typically require a minimum credit score of 620. FHA loans allow scores as low as 500 (with 10% down) or 580 (with 3.5% down). VA loans have no official minimum but most lenders prefer 620+. Higher scores unlock better rates.

How much do I need for a down payment?

Down payment requirements vary by loan type: FHA loans require 3.5%, conventional loans can go as low as 3%, VA and USDA loans offer 0% down for eligible borrowers. A 20% down payment eliminates private mortgage insurance (PMI).

What is the difference between a fixed and adjustable-rate mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage keeps the same interest rate for the life of the loan, providing predictable payments. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) starts with a lower rate that adjusts periodically based on market conditions — ideal if you plan to sell or refinance within 5–7 years.

How much house can I afford?

A common guideline is to keep your total housing costs (mortgage, taxes, insurance) below 28% of your gross monthly income. Your total debt payments should stay below 36–43% of gross income (debt-to-income ratio). Use a mortgage calculator to estimate your budget.

What is PMI and how do I avoid it?

Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is required on conventional loans when you put down less than 20%. It typically costs 0.5%–1.5% of the loan amount annually. You can avoid PMI by making a 20% down payment, using a piggyback loan, or choosing a lender-paid PMI option.

Best Mortgages for 680 Credit Score (March 2026)

680

Fair-Good Credit Range

Mortgage Options at This Score

What to Expect

You're approaching good credit territory. Most lenders will approve you, and you can start negotiating better terms.

WiseIQ Expert Tip

A 0.5% difference in mortgage rate on a $350,000 loan saves over $35,000 in interest over 30 years. Always get at least 3 quotes before choosing a lender.

Rate Impact

Rates are 1–4% above prime borrowers.

💡 Top Tip for 680 Credit

Pay down revolving balances to below 20% utilization for the fastest score improvement.

Timeline: 3–9 months to reach the 700+ threshold.

680 Good Credit

Last Updated: March 2026 WiseIQ Editorial Team 8 min read

Rate Range

6.25% – 7.10%

Approval Odds

Min. Down Payment

⚠️ Advertiser Disclosure: WiseIQ is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you click links to our partners. This does not affect our editorial independence or the rates you receive.

← 660 Browse by Credit Score 700 →

680 is solidly good for mortgages. You'll receive competitive rates from most lenders and have full access to all loan programs. This is where mortgage financing starts to feel affordable.

Our Top Picks for 680 Credit Score

Best Rate

Better.com

APR Range6.25% – 7.00%

Min. Credit Score620

Why we recommend it: Better.com's no-fee model and competitive rates for 680 borrowers make it the top choice for cost-conscious homebuyers.

Check Your Rate →

Best for Fast Closing

Rocket Mortgage

APR Range6.35% – 7.10%

Min. Credit Score620

Why we recommend it: Rocket Mortgage's Verified Approval program and fast closing times make it ideal for competitive housing markets.

Check Your Rate →

Best Comparison Tool

LendingTree

APR Range6.25% – 7.10%

Min. Credit Score580

Why we recommend it: LendingTree's multi-lender comparison is especially valuable at 680 where you're entering prime territory and lenders compete for your business.

Check Your Rate →

Frequently Asked Questions

What mortgage rate can I get with a 680 credit score?

680 borrowers typically qualify for 6.25–7.1% on conventional loans. This is approaching prime territory — the best rates are available to 720+ borrowers.

Should I put 20% down at 680 to avoid PMI?

If you have the funds, yes — avoiding PMI saves 0.5–1.5% annually. However, if putting 20% down depletes your emergency fund, a smaller down payment with PMI may be safer.

How much does a 680 vs 720 credit score save on a mortgage?

On a $400,000 mortgage, the difference between 6.75% (680) and 6.25% (720) APR is about $130/month or $46,800 over 30 years.

Sources & Methodology

WiseIQ's editorial team researches and fact-checks all content using primary sources. Our recommendations are based on independent analysis and are not influenced by advertiser relationships.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) — regulatory data and consumer guidance
Federal Reserve — Consumer Credit Report (G.19) — interest rate benchmarks
AnnualCreditReport.com — official free credit report access
myFICO Credit Education — credit score methodology
Lender and issuer websites — rates, terms, and eligibility verified directly from source

Last reviewed: April 2026 | How we rank products

Best Mortgages for a 680 Credit Score

Better.com

Rocket Mortgage

LendingTree

Sources & Methodology

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