What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a House in New Hampshire?

What Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a House in New Hampshire?

Your credit score is one of the biggest factors when buying a home in New Hampshire. Whether you’re searching in Plymouth, Campton, Ashland, Bristol, Rumney, Thornton, or anywhere else in Central NH, here’s exactly what lenders look for.

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Minimum Credit Scores for NH Home Loans

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FHA Loan (Great for First-Time Buyers)

Minimum score: 580 (3.5% down)

Scores 500–579 may qualify with 10% down

FHA is very popular for older homes, cabins, and rural properties.

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Conventional Loan

Minimum score: 620

Higher scores = stronger approval and better rates.

Best for competitive offers.

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USDA Loan (Zero Down in Rural NH Areas)

Minimum score: 640

Many Central NH towns qualify (Rumney, Wentworth, Dorchester, etc.).

Perfect for buyers with limited down payment funds.

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VA Loan (For Veterans)

Typical score: 580–620

Flexible underwriting + no down payment.

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Q&A

Q: What credit score do you need to buy a house in NH?

A: Most buyers need 580–640, depending on the loan program.

620+ is ideal for lower rates and smoother approval.

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Local NH Factors That Affect Eligibility

You may need a higher score for:

Seasonal or “camp-style” properties

Properties with old heating/electrical

Manufactured homes

Homes requiring major repairs

Off-grid locations

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Keywords

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About the Author

Looking to buy or sell in Central New Hampshire?

I’m Jimmy Johnson, a local NH real estate agent and cash buyer helping clients across Plymouth, Grafton County, and the surrounding areas

Jim Johnson — Real Estate Agent

58 NH Route 25A

Wentworth, NH 03282

P: (857) 249-7392

W: www.JimJohnsonRealEstateAgent.com

Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services

Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com

Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com