You can sometimes get a mortgage without a credit score using “nontraditional credit”: a record of on-time payments for rent, utilities, phone, insurance and similar bills, usually for at least 12 months. FHA, VA and USDA loans, and some conventional loans, allow it, often with manual underwriting and stricter debt limits. Building a score first usually gets you better terms.
Why you might not have a score
Many people who pay with cash or debit, young adults, and people new to the country have little or no credit history. Without at least one account reported for several months, the bureaus can’t calculate a score.
Nontraditional credit
- 12 months of rent paid on time, often verified by your landlord or canceled checks.
- Utilities: electricity, gas, water, internet.
- Phone, insurance, child care, tuition or other regular bills.
Lenders typically want several of these, with no late payments in the last year.
Which loans allow it
| Loan | Typically |
|---|---|
| FHA | Allowed with manual underwriting and limits on debt ratios |
| VA and USDA | Allowed with nontraditional credit |
| Conventional | Possible in some cases, especially if a co-borrower has a score |
Building a score quickly
- A secured credit card, used lightly and paid in full every month.
- A credit-builder loan from a credit union.
- Rent reporting services that add your rent payments to your reports.
- Becoming an authorized user on a family member’s long-standing card.
A score can appear within about six months. Plan it into your timeline with the homebuying timeline, and see how to raise your credit score.
Common questions
Can I buy a house with no credit score?
Sometimes, with FHA, VA, USDA or some conventional loans using nontraditional credit like 12 months of on-time rent and utilities.
How fast can I build a credit score?
A score can appear within about six months of opening and using a credit account.
Does paying rent build credit?
Only if it’s reported to the credit bureaus, for example through a rent reporting service.
Updated October 2026. Educational content. OfferBacked is not currently a lender and doesn’t issue pre-approvals or loans.