Mortgage Answers, in Plain English

Everything first-time buyers, refinancers, and homeowners need to know — from rates and FHA to VA and jumbo loans.

Reviewed by licensed loan officers Updated April 2026 247 articles

  • What Credit Score Do You Need for a Mortgage in 2026?

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About this category

What you’ll find in FinReply’s Mortgage section

A mortgage is the largest financial commitment most Americans will ever make — and the one where a single percentage point can cost or save tens of thousands of dollars. Our Mortgage section cuts through lender jargon and gives you answers grounded in how the 2026 market works.

Every article is reviewed by a licensed loan officer or mortgage broker. We cite primary sources — CFPB, HUD, Fannie Mae — and note the last-reviewed date on every page.

Whether you’re running numbers on a first home, deciding if a refi makes sense, or trying to understand FHA fine print — start with the popular questions above or browse by focus area.

Frequently asked

Mortgage FAQ

Quick answers to the questions we get most.

What credit score do I need to qualify for a mortgage?
Most conventional lenders want a minimum of 620, but you’ll get better rates at 740+. FHA loans go down to 580 with 3.5% down. VA and USDA have no set minimum but most lenders apply a 620 floor.
How much should I put down on a house?
20% avoids PMI entirely, but it’s not required. Conventional loans allow 3% down, FHA 3.5%, VA/USDA 0%. The right number depends on your cash reserves and how long you plan to stay.
When does it make sense to refinance?
If you can drop your rate by 0.75–1% and plan to stay long enough to recoup closing costs (usually 2–4 years), refinancing is worth considering. Run the break-even math first.
What’s the difference between APR and interest rate?
The interest rate is the cost of the loan itself. APR includes the rate plus lender fees, points, and mortgage insurance. APR is always higher and gives a better apples-to-apples comparison.
Can I use a VA loan more than once?
Yes. VA entitlement can be restored when you pay off a previous VA loan. Bonus entitlement lets qualifying veterans hold two VA loans at once in some situations.
Keep exploring

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Filing, deductions & IRS

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