Zillow: Lower Credit Scores Add Costs to Homebuying – NMP Skip to main content

Zillow: Lower Credit Scores Add Costs to Homebuying

May 15, 2018
The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) has announced that it expects to see $1.24 trillion in purchase mortgage originations in 2019

Homebuyers carrying a lower credit score can wind up paying $21,000 more than a buyer with an excellent credit score, according to new data from Zillow.
 
On a national level, a borrower an "excellent" credit score could get a mortgage with a 4.50 percent annual percentage rate, but a borrower with a "fair" credit score would wind up with a 5.10 percent rate, thus spending $700 more per year for the typical home. In pricier housing markets, the cost differences are significantly greater.
 
"When you buy a home, your financial history determines your financial future," said Zillow Senior Economist Aaron Terrazas. "Homebuyers with weaker credit end up paying substantially higher costs over the lifetime of a home loan. Of course, homeowners do have the option to refinance their loan if their credit improves, but as mortgage rates rise this may be a less attractive option."
Homebuyers carrying a lower credit score can wind up paying $21,000 more than a buyer with an excellent credit score, according to new data from Zillow

 
 
About the author
Published
May 15, 2018
The Fed Held. The Mortgage Market Got A Warning.

Three policymakers favored an immediate hike, while Warsh welcomed higher bond yields and offered no clear path toward mortgage-rate relief

Jul 30, 2026
New Study Finds UWM's 'All-In' Triggered Industrywide Pricing Spillovers

Research shows wholesale competitors responded to the 2021 Rocket ban by lowering mortgage rates,

Jul 15, 2026
First Major Housing Reform In Decades Becomes Law Without Trump's Signature

Bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act advances supply, construction, and mortgage reforms despite White House protest

Jul 10, 2026
Mortgage Star Conference Honors Women Shaping The Future Of Mortgage Leadership

MWLC honors leaders driving innovation, mentorship, and growth across the mortgage industry

Jul 09, 2026
June Jobs Report Improves Mortgage Rate Outlook

Slower hiring strengthens bonds and eases concerns over additional Fed tightening

Jul 02, 2026
NEXA Founder Mike Kortas Launches evoLend To Help Originators Retain Borrowers

New Fannie Mae-, Freddie Mac- and Ginnie Mae-approved mortgage servicer aims to keep originators connected to borrowers through servicing data, payoff visibility and retention tools

Jul 02, 2026