Looking into a VA Loan, but my credit is in the "fair" category (610-630). What is the minimum score for VA?

Va doesn't have a minimum credit score, but then again, VA does not lend money.. they only insure loans against default.. the lenders, or those with the $$$ will oftentimes have their own guidelines above what VA calls for.. it's these "Overlays" that vary from one lender to another.. this all being said, there are lenders out there that will do VA down to 600 credit scores.. The best advice I can give you is to contact a LOCAL mortgage broker and apply with them. Once they see your complete loan profile, they will be better equipped to advise you properly. Also, by applying with your LOCAL Broker, you have an advantage because he's familiar with local customs and works with many lenders with each one offering a different type of lending program. This is unlike the local bank which typically only has a few lending programs. The more lenders, the more lending options, and the more likely your scenario will be accepted.. Plus, the broker is experienced in seeking out the best loan terms for your particular scenario, and he has lower overhead which typically results in lower rates and fees than most of the larger lenders.. I'm a Broker here in Scottsdale AZ and I only lend in Arizona. If you or someone you know is looking for financing options, feel free to contact me or pass along my information. William J. Acres, Lender411's number ONE lender in Arizona. 480-287-5714 WilliamAcres.com NMLS# 226347

As William mentioned, VA is not the lender. The VA establishes minimum guidelines. A lender can choose to establish their own, more restrictive, criteria. For example, our minimum credit score for VA is 620. You may find lenders that will go lower. Perhaps they would require a down payment amount if you were below "X" credit score.

Expanding on the existing responses, finding a VA loan with a 640 or higher score is pretty easy. The big cut off for most lenders is 640. Your lender options drop significantly at 639 and lower. The next big lender cut off is below 620 (this is our score limit). Getting a VA loans with scores below 620 is offered by an extremely small number of lenders. But my understanding, is that while they say they may offer it, virtually no one gets approved with those low scores because of everything else going on in their file that generated the low score to begin with. Bottom line? Work on repairing credit, and once safely over 640, then apply for your loan. For VA loans in MN, WI, and SD, visit me at www.VA-IRRRL-Loan-MN.com

Hi Tony,I specialize in VA financing and can go down to a 600 score. Contrary to what Joe Metzler said I do get these VA loans with sub 620 scores closed. I would be honored to help you.| Please feel free to contact me for more information or help. | John Burke | Senior Mortgage Banker | Great Plains National Bank http://www.valoansdoneright.com | (877)228-9069 | Lending in ALL 50 states