Well... that's a loaded questions, and I'll defer to any lender who would like to answer. But I can give you some guidelines/scenarios. It depends on why your score is bad. You can have a bad score (let's say, 590) because of credit cards and other th ings, but if the credit check reveals that you always paid your rent on time while you failed to pay your other reported debts, you might qualify for a mortgage. However, you could have a 700 score, paying all your loans on time EXCEPT for your rent, and you wouldn't qualify. See how that works? go to a lender you trust, and figure out where you are and what you can qualify for. And think about this: you may not qualify for a loan now, but with good credit management, you might qualify in as little as six months. Find yourself a lender and listen to them.

good morning....bad credi is realtive..kind-of bad?.or very bad?....fha is the most forgiving program at the moment.....for all sorts of file issues....why not call me and i'll try to help you.best regards.bob mcclure- mortgage now- farmington, michigan.. (248) 974-4444.weekends are fine...i am licensed in your state...

Lender loans is based on credit scores. if you have concerns many times they can be overlooked HOWEVER not seeing your credit report difficult to comment. http://www.lynn911.com

FHA and other government back loans are very forgiving, but they still have minimums. I never really know what people mean when they assess their own credit. Talk to a lender NOW, they can help you position yourself if you're not ready yet.

Good credit is always a great place to start. Karen, unfortunately, the mortgage industry has seen a lot of crisis nationwide. One segment of that industry was "subprime" market. That means loans that are granted to buyers who perhaps don't have the best credit. The subprime lending market is virtually nonexistent now. The best thing I can advise for you is to get linked in with a good first-time homebuyer's counseling program. One of the best in your area is Woodbine Community Center and Affordable Housing Resources.

http://www.woodbinecommunity.org/
http://www.ahrhousing.org/

Both are known for stellar first-time buyer programs. You'll learn tips and secrets to get more financial support, counseling and ways to improve your credit. Trust me, you won't regret learning and growing with either of these organizations. Neither have marketing undertones; so, don't fear the "sell" here.

I'm so proud of you for starting this dialog. You CAN make this happen! Best of luck!