Buying a Home with a 580–600 Credit Score? These Texas Programs Can Help You Get There

By Quiana Toliver, Realtor® | HEAT Realty| (346) 254-4816 |  homesbyquiana.com

Thinking about buying your first home but worried your credit score isn’t high enough? If your score falls between 580 and 600, don’t panic — you may still qualify for a home loan and get help with your down payment.

The key is knowing your options and working with someone who understands how to guide you through the process. That’s where I come in.

Here are three homebuyer programs in Texas that could help make homeownership possible for you — even if your credit isn’t perfect yet.

1. Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) – Homes for Texas Heroes & Home Sweet Texas

TSAHC is a great option for first-time buyers with less-than-perfect credit. They work with approved lenders who may offer options starting at 600 credit scores — and sometimes even lower depending on the loan type.

Who qualifies:
First-time buyers or those who haven’t owned in the past 3 years
Minimum credit score of 600 (some exceptions possible)
Must meet income and purchase price limits
Extra support available for teachers, nurses, veterans, first responders, and other community heroes

Benefits:
Up to 5% down payment assistance
Can be a grant or a forgivable second loan
Fixed-rate mortgage options
May be combined with a Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) for long-term tax savings

More info: tsahc.org

2. Texas Department of Housing & Community Affairs (TDHCA) – My First Texas Home Program

TDHCA works with lenders who understand that many buyers are rebuilding credit. Some FHA-backed loans allow for scores as low as 580 — which could make this program a solid fit.

Who qualifies:
First-time homebuyers or those buying in designated target areas
Minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans, but FHA options may allow for 580+
Must meet income and purchase price guidelines

Benefits:
Down payment and closing cost assistance (up to 5%)
Affordable 30-year fixed-rate mortgage
Available throughout Texas through approved lenders

More info: myfirsttexashome.com

3. Local City or County Down Payment Assistance Programs

Many local governments — including areas like Houston, Alvin, and surrounding communities — offer their own down payment assistance programs, and some may work with buyers who have credit scores in the 580–600 range.

Who qualifies:
Income-based requirements vary by area
Must complete a homebuyer education course
Often open to buyers with credit challenges, especially when paired with FHA loans

Benefits:
Grants or forgivable loans for down payment and closing costs
Can often be stacked with state programs
Some cities offer $10,000 to $15,000+ in assistance

Not sure what your city offers? I’ll help you find out what’s available where you're looking to buy.

What’s Next?

If your credit score is between 580 and 600, don’t count yourself out. There are real programs — and real solutions — designed to help buyers just like you become homeowners. The key is working with the right loan officer and real estate agent (hi, that’s me!) who understand the process and believe in helping you win.

Let’s connect, talk through your goals, and create a homebuying plan that works for your credit, your timeline, and your budget.

Quiana Toliver, Realtor®
HEAT Realty
(346) 254-4816
quianatoliver@gmail.com
homesbyquiana.com

Let’s take the first step toward home — together.