In 2024, the average rejection rate for mortgage applications in the U.S. reached 20.7%, a rise of 8.6 percentage points from previous years. If you are a first-time homebuyer with poor credit scores, here are some loan options for bad credit.
If you have bad credit in Michigan, consider FHA, VA, and USDA loans for home purchases. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) also offers programs to help first-time homebuyers with poor credit. So, start your home-buying journey now!
👉 Michigan Homes for Sale: Browse listings and find your dream home today!
5 Steps to Buy a House With Bad Credit in Michigan
16% of Americans have a poor credit score. If you fall into this category, here’s how you can still buy your dream home:
Step 1: Review Your Credit Score
Before you buy a house in Michigan, check your credit report for errors and negative marks that could affect your credit score. If you find mistakes on your credit report, you can dispute them directly with the credit bureau.
Step 2: Look for Mortgage Options With Bad Credit
Not all loans are available for bad credit in Michigan. However, some options can help you buying a home with bad credit. Here’s a list of loans and their minimum requirements:
- Conventional Loans: The minimum credit score required for conventional loans is 620 for Fannie Mae and 660 for Freddie Mac. However, a 3% down payment is mandatory.
- FHA Loans: With FHA loans, you can buy a house with a credit score as low as 500 with a 10% down payment. If your score is 580 or above, you can put 3.5% down. However, you can only use FHA loans to purchase a primary residence.
- VA Loans: VA loans are ideal for active-duty military and their spouses in Michigan, home to 516,758 veterans. While VA loans have no strict credit score requirement, most lenders prefer a minimum score of 620.
- USDA Loans: The US Department of Agriculture offers USDA loans to encourage homeownership in rural areas like Ontonagon, Dickinson, Otsego, and Hillsdale County, etc. While the loans don’t have a minimum credit score, lenders prefer a score of 620 or above.
Step 3: Consider Subprime Lenders
Subprime lenders, like the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, offer mortgages tailored for people with bad credit in Michigan. They evaluate factors such as your employment history, income, and ability to pay down, rather than relying solely on credit scores.
These lenders also provide flexible loan terms and accept a higher debt-to-income ratio, often 50% or more for subprime mortgages. However, DTI requirements can vary by lender and loan type, which makes it easier for you to secure financing.
Step 4: Save for a Larger Down Payment
For traditional mortgages in Michigan, the minimum down payment typically ranges from 3% to 20%. However, if you have a bad credit score, a minimum of 10% is usually required.
In the Michigan real estate market, a larger down payment can improve your chances of securing a loan. Lenders also view this as a sign of financial responsibility.
Step 5: Get Pre-Approved
For first-time home buyers in Michigan, a mortgage preapproval is important, especially for those with bad credit scores. It informs you about your mortgage interest rate and monthly payments, and helps you manage your finances better.
How to Get Michigan Loans With Bad Credit?
It can be challenging to get home loans for bad credit in Michigan. But it is possible if you have the right approach. Here’s what to do:
- Pay Off Existing Debt: Before you buy a house in Michigan with bad credit, you should pay back the money you already owe. Michigan lenders often consider a manageable debt-to-income ratio below 36% as a sign of financial stability.
- Budget Wisely: Factor the cost of living in Michigan into your home-buying budget. This includes utilities, insurance, property taxes, and transportation costs.
- Get a Co-Signed Mortgage: Look for a co-signer with a strong credit score to strengthen your loan application. This person will be responsible for paying back the co-signed mortgage if you default on payments.
- Explore Michigan-Specific Programs: Michigan offers the Homebuyer Program through the Michigan Veterans Affairs’ Home Loan Program to assist buyers with poor credit. It supports low-to-moderate-income residents earning 120% or less of their county’s median household income.
- Understand the Mortgage Application Process: Familiarize yourself with Michigan’s mortgage requirements, including disclosures and lender criteria. Prepare documents like income proof and credit explanations to strengthen your application.
Can I Get a Mortgage With Bad Credit in Michigan?
Yes! You can get a mortgage with bad credit in Michigan. There are various options available for buyers in this situation. FHA loans need a minimum credit score of 500 with a 10% down payment, while VA loans for veterans have no strict credit score requirements.
Apart from that, lenders also assess more than just your credit score; they also consider your income, savings, and overall financial situation. So, don’t wait! Make your dream of homeownership in Michigan come true today!
