What Credit Score Do You Need to Get a Mortgage? Expert Guide for Buyers
Understanding the right credit score to get a mortgage is one of the first steps toward homeownership. Your credit score plays a huge role in how lenders view you — but the good news is, even if your score isn’t perfect, you still have options.
At Mortgage Bridge, we help clients with all kinds of credit histories — from spotless to challenging — find suitable mortgage options. This guide explains how credit scores influence your chances and what you can do to boost yours before applying.
What Is a Credit Score and Why Does It Matter?
Your credit score is a numerical representation of your financial reliability. It shows lenders how you’ve managed credit in the past — including loans, credit cards, bills, and payments.
Each credit reference agency uses its own scale:
| Credit Agency | Score Range | What’s Considered “Good” |
|---|---|---|
| Experian | 0–999 | 881–960 |
| Equifax | 0–1,000 | 671–810 |
| TransUnion | 0–710 | 604–627 |
| Crediva | 0–1,000 | 700+ |
These numbers help lenders assess risk. The higher your score, the more likely you’ll be offered lower rates and wider product choices.
However, your score isn’t the only factor — it’s just one part of a lender’s affordability assessment.
What Credit Score Do You Need to Get a Mortgage?
There’s no universal “magic number” that guarantees approval, but here’s what you can expect:
| Credit Score Band | Likely Outcome |
|---|---|
| Excellent (Experian 961+ / Equifax 811+ / TransUnion 628+) | Access to most lenders and competitive rates |
| Good (881–960 / 671–810 / 604–627) | Broad choice of lenders; may still need a modest deposit |
| Fair (721–880 / 531–670 / 566–603) | May qualify with specialist lenders or higher deposits |
| Poor (560–720 / 439–530 / 551–565) | Limited lender options; higher interest rates likely |
| Very Poor (below 560 / below 438 / below 550) | Specialist or adverse credit lenders only; larger deposits required |
💡 Tip: Even with a lower credit score, you can still get a mortgage — it just means finding the right lender and product for your situation.
How Do Lenders Use Credit Scores?
Every lender interprets your credit score to get a mortgage slightly differently, which is why knowing your full report from all agencies can make your application stronger.
They’ll check:
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Your credit history (past payments, defaults, or missed bills)
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Affordability (your income, spending, and existing commitments)
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Employment stability (how long you’ve been in your current role or industry)
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Deposit size (larger deposits can offset lower scores)
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Debt-to-income ratio (how much you owe versus what you earn)
Lenders may also apply their own internal scoring systems, meaning two lenders could view the same applicant differently.
That’s why working with a mortgage broker can be so valuable — we match your credit profile with lenders most likely to approve you.
Can You Get a Mortgage with a Low Credit Score?
Yes — it’s entirely possible to get a mortgage with a low credit score, especially through specialist lenders.
Common reasons for lower scores include:
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Late or missed payments
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Defaults or County Court Judgments (CCJs)
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Debt Management Plans (DMPs)
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Bankruptcy or IVAs
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High credit utilisation (using too much of your available credit)
If your score is less than perfect, don’t panic. Specialist lenders often consider your overall stability and affordability rather than just your score.
We’ve helped many clients rebuild their credit and get approved — sometimes within months of improving their profile.
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying
Improving your credit score can increase your choice of lenders and secure better interest rates. Here’s how to start:
1. Check Your Credit Reports
Use multi-agency tools like Check My File to see your full report from all four agencies. Look for any errors, outdated accounts, or inconsistencies.
2. Get on the Electoral Roll
Registering to vote at your current address instantly boosts your credit profile and helps lenders confirm your identity.
3. Pay Bills and Debts on Time
Set up direct debits to avoid missed payments — even one late payment can harm your score.
4. Reduce Credit Card Balances
Keep usage under 30% of your credit limit where possible. High utilisation suggests financial pressure.
5. Avoid Multiple Credit Applications
Each application leaves a mark on your file. Space out applications to avoid appearing overextended.
6. Use Credit Responsibly
Even small amounts of well-managed credit — such as a mobile phone contract or store card — can help strengthen your profile.
How Deposit Size Affects Credit Score Requirements
Your deposit size can sometimes make up for a lower credit score.
For example:
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With a good credit score, you may need as little as 5–10% deposit.
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With fair or poor credit, lenders often prefer 15–30% deposit.
The more equity you contribute, the less risk for the lender — meaning you’ll likely access better rates.
Real-Life Example: Mortgage Approved with a Fair Credit Score
A client came to us with a fair credit score and a few historic missed payments. They had a stable income and 15% deposit saved.
We matched them with a specialist lender that accepted their full credit history, and they secured an affordable fixed-rate mortgage — despite being turned down elsewhere.
The key was finding the right lender, not just the right score.
Final Thoughts
So, what credit score do you need to get a mortgage? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but understanding your credit position helps you prepare and plan strategically.
Even if your score isn’t perfect, you still have options. With the right advice, specialist lenders, and careful preparation, homeownership is absolutely achievable.
At Mortgage Bridge, we’re here to guide you through every step — from understanding your credit file to securing the right mortgage for your goals.
If you’re ready to explore your options, we’re happy to help.