So, your credit score isn’t exactly brag-worthy. Maybe it’s hanging out in the “needs improvement” zone. Before you spiral, here’s the facts: your credit score doesn’t define your future — it just informs your strategy going forward.

At Statewide Mortgage, we get it. Life happens. Missed payments, medical bills, student loans… maybe that one time you forgot your card was still linked to your streaming service. Whatever the case, your credit score might be making it harder to leverage debt effectively — especially when it comes to a worthy endeavor like buying a home.

But here’s the deal: while a low credit score can limit your options, it doesn’t eliminate them. Not even close. We work with borrowers across the credit spectrum to find loan solutions that work. That said, knowing how your score impacts your mortgage options, and what you can do to improve your standing, is powerful. And we’re all about putting power back in your hands.

Think of your credit score like your financial reputation. It tells lenders how risky (or not) it is to loan you money. When your score dips into the lower ranges (think below 620), lenders start to worry. Translation? You’ll likely face:

• Higher interest rates
• Limited loan program options
• Larger required down payments
• More scrutiny in underwriting

It’s not about punishment — it’s about risk management. But higher rates and tighter terms make debt more expensive and less flexible, which makes it harder to use mortgages as a wealth-building tool. You can still buy a house, but it might cost you more over time unless you plan smart.

Here’s where we step in. At Statewide Mortgage, we believe your financial past shouldn’t sabotage your future. We work with a variety of loan programs — including FHA, VA, and non-traditional products — that allow for lower credit scores. And we’ll coach you through how to put your best financial foot forward in the process.

We’re not here to judge. We’re here to help.

If your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, you’ve got options — and big change starts with small steps. Here are some practical ways to move the needle:

Start with knowing exactly what’s on your report. Errors happen more than you think, and disputing incorrect information could boost your score. Pro tip: you can pull your credit reports for free at annualcreditreport.com.

Your credit utilization ratio — how much of your available credit you’re using — plays a big role in your score. Try to get your balances below 30% of your limits, and if you can go lower, even better.

Paying on time is one of the fastest ways to rebuild credit. Set up autopay. Use reminders. Sticky-notes can be your best friend. Just make those payments on time.

Opening new lines of credit or applying for multiple loans in a short period can ding your score. If you’re mortgage shopping, work with a broker (like us) who can shop rates across lenders with only one credit pull.

Even if your score is on the lower end, a pre-approval gives you clarity on what’s possible. Our loan officers will walk you through your options, raise any red flags, and help you build a plan — whether you’re ready to buy now or need a few months to prep.

Your credit score might not cut it right now, but that doesn’t mean it can’t. With the right guidance, tools, and support (hi, that’s us), you can turn a credit challenge into a success story.

Ready to see what’s possible? Let’s chat. We’ll meet you wherever you’re at and help you get where you’re going.