Can You Apply for a Mortgage Without Credit?
One of the most common questions I hear as a mortgage lender is: “Can I get a mortgage without a FICO score?” The short answer is yes, it’s possible. But like most things in lending, there’s more to the story.
Why Credit Matters
Your credit score is one of the key ways lenders assess risk. It shows how you’ve handled debt in the past and gives a snapshot of your financial reliability. If you don’t have established credit, it doesn’t automatically disqualify you, it just means we need to approach things differently. If you’re not familiar with how your credit score is calculated, check out my YouTube video, “How is your Credit Score Calculated?”
What You Can Do if You Don’t Have Credit
- Explore No-Score Loan Options: Some loan programs allow alternative ways of showing creditworthiness. Instead of relying on a credit score, lenders may look at your history of on-time payments for rent, utilities, phone bills, or other recurring obligation
- Establish Credit Now: Even if you’re planning to buy soon, taking small steps to build credit helps. Consider:
- Opening a secured credit card.
- Getting a small personal loan and paying it off on time.
- Making sure your existing payments (rent, utilities) are reported to credit agencies where possible.
Bottom Line
Having no credit doesn’t mean homeownership is out of reach. It simply means we’ll need to be more intentional in how we position your application. With the right guidance, you can qualify for a mortgage and take steps toward building a stronger financial foundation along the way.
Here’s The Thing
This isn’t a question that can be fully answered in an email. Every borrower’s situation is unique, and I care deeply about effectively communicating with potential borrowers. That’s why I would prefer to have a quick 15-minute phone call or video chat. Together, we can outline your options and plan the next steps, whether that’s applying now or creating a plan to build credit first. Text me at (202) 951-8484, email me at Leo@Anzoleaga.com, or easily schedule your free initial consultation with my team here.