For conventional loans, we generally want to see 620 or higher. FHA loans can go as low as 580 with 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down. VA loans don’t have a minimum credit score requirement from the VA, but most lenders (including us) prefer to see at least 620.

Here’s the thing about credit scores in Florida: they matter, but they’re not everything. We’ve approved loans for people with 640 credit scores and turned down applications from people with 780 scores. It depends on the whole picture—income stability, debt levels, assets, and how well you can explain any credit issues.