Qualify for a mortgage in 2025
Buying a home in South Carolina is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make, and understanding the current mortgage requirements is essential for a smooth process. While mortgage guidelines can vary slightly depending on the lender and the loan type, here are the key minimum requirements to qualify for a mortgage in 2025.
1. Credit score
Your credit score remains one of the most important factors in mortgage approval. In 2025, here’s what lenders are generally looking for:
- Conventional loans: Minimum score of 620
- FHA loans: Minimum score of 580 (with 3.5% down)
- VA loans: No official minimum, but most lenders prefer 620+
- USDA loans: Typically require a 640 minimum
Tip: A higher credit score can lead to better interest rates and lower monthly payments.
2. Down payment
The amount you need for a down payment depends on the loan type:
- Conventional loans: Minimum of 3%–5%
- FHA loans: As low as 3.5%
- VA loans: 0% down for eligible veterans and active-duty service members
- USDA loans: 0% down for qualified rural homebuyers
Note: A 20% down payment eliminates the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI) on conventional loans.
3. Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)
DTI measures your monthly debt obligations against your gross income. Most lenders in 2025 are looking for:
- Conventional loans: Max DTI of 43%, though some allow up to 50% with strong credit
- FHA loans: May allow up to 57% with compensating factors
- VA and USDA loans: Typically accept up to 41%, with flexibility
4. Employment and income verification
To qualify for a mortgage, you’ll need to show:
- Stable employment (usually 2 years of consistent income)
- Pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns for verification
- For self-employed individuals, lenders typically require two years of tax returns and profit and loss statements
5. Assets and reserves
While not always mandatory, many lenders want to see that you have:
- Savings or liquid assets to cover the down payment and closing costs
- Cash reserves (enough to cover 2–6 months of mortgage payments) in some cases
6. Property requirements
- The property must meet minimum standards for safety and livability (especially for FHA, VA, and USDA loans).
- It must be appraised to ensure the value meets or exceeds the loan amount.
7. Documentation checklist
Be prepared with:
- Government-issued ID
- Social Security number
- Recent pay stubs (last 30 days)
- W-2s or 1099s (last 2 years)
- Tax returns (especially if self-employed)
- Bank and asset statements (last 60 days)
- Employment verification (employer contact or VOE form)
Final thoughts
Mortgage qualification in 2025 is still rooted in the same fundamentals: good credit, steady income, manageable debt, and some savings. While different loan programs offer flexibility, strengthening your financial profile will always give you more options and better terms for your South Carolina home.
Talk to one of our experienced loan officers or start the pre approval process to understand which loan fits your unique situation best.
This article is for informational purposes only. Loan Programs may have additional restrictions or requirements.
