Dreaming of buying a home in San Antonio but worried your credit score isn’t high enough? You’re not alone, and you’re not out of options. Many people assume you need perfect credit to qualify for a mortgage, but the truth is, you can buy a home in San Antonio with a credit score as low as 550.

At New Horizons Lending, we help everyday Texans become homeowners—even when their credit is less than ideal. If your score is around 550, here’s what you need to know to make homeownership a reality in San Antonio.

Can You Really Buy a Home with a 550 Credit Score?

Yes, but there are a few things to consider. A 550 credit score falls in the “poor” range, but some loan programs are designed to help buyers with lower credit scores, especially if you have other strengths like steady income or a larger down payment.

In San Antonio, an affordable housing market compared to other major Texas cities, your dream home might be closer than you think, even with less-than-perfect credit.

Loan Options for Low-Credit Buyers in San Antonio

At New Horizons Lending, we understand that credit isn’t the whole story. Here are a few mortgage options that may be available to you:

1. FHA Loans

FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and are one of the most common loan types for buyers with low credit. While the standard minimum score is 580, we can help you get approved with scores as low as 550.

2. Subprime or Non-QM Loans

These are alternative loan products for buyers who don’t meet traditional mortgage guidelines. While the interest rates may be higher, they can be a helpful stepping stone into homeownership.

3. Manual Underwriting

You might qualify through a process called manual underwriting, where other financial factors, like rent history, job stability, and debt-to-income ratio, are considered alongside your credit score.

What You Can Do Now to Strengthen Your Application

Even with a 550 score, there are things you can do to improve your chances of approval and get better loan terms:

●     Save for a Down Payment: The more you can put down, the better your approval odds.

●     Reduce Your Debt: Lowering your credit card balances can quickly improve your debt-to-income ratio.

●     Show Stable Income: Two years of steady work history will give lenders more confidence.

●     Avoid New Credit: Don’t open new lines of credit while applying for a mortgage—it can hurt your score.

Why San Antonio Is a Smart Place to Buy

San Antonio is one of the most affordable big cities in Texas, with a booming job market, great schools, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re buying in the South Side, the Medical

Center, or the fast-growing West San Antonio area, your mortgage dollar can go further here.

And when you work with a local lender like New Horizons Lending, you get personalized guidance from people who know the San Antonio market inside and out.

Start Your Journey Today, Even with a 550 Credit Score

Homeownership doesn’t have to wait. If you're in San Antonio and have a 550 credit score, New Horizons Lending is here to help you explore your options, find the right loan, and walk you through every step of the process.

Ready to talk? Contact us today or start your application online. A new home in San Antonio may be closer than you think.