700 Credit Score: What It Means and How It Affects Your Home Buying Power

When you hear 700 credit score, a mid-to-high range score that signals responsible borrowing behavior to lenders. Also known as good credit, it’s often the threshold where banks start offering better interest rates. But here’s the truth: a 700 score doesn’t mean you’re golden. It means you’re in the game, not winning it.

Most lenders see a 700 credit score as reliable, but not exceptional. You’ll likely qualify for a mortgage, but you won’t get the best rates—those usually go to people with scores above 760. Your mortgage rate, the percentage a lender charges to borrow money for a home could be half a percent higher than someone with an 800 score. Over a 30-year loan, that adds up to tens of thousands. Your down payment, the upfront cash you pay toward a home purchase might need to be larger, too. Some lenders require 10% or more if your score is under 740, even if you have a solid income.

It’s not just about buying. Landlords in cities like Mumbai or Bangalore often check credit scores when you apply for a rental. A 700 score gets you past the first filter, but if someone else has 750 and a higher income, they’ll get the apartment. Your credit utilization, how much of your available credit you’re using matters just as much as the number itself. If you’re maxing out your cards, even a 700 score won’t save you.

And don’t assume a 700 score fixes everything. If you’ve had a recent late payment, a collection account, or too many hard inquiries in the last six months, lenders will still hesitate. Your score is a snapshot—it doesn’t tell the full story. That’s why some buyers with 700 scores get denied while others with 680 get approved: it’s not just the number, it’s the pattern behind it.

Below, you’ll find real stories and breakdowns from people who’ve navigated the housing market with scores around 700. Some used it to lock in a lease. Others fought to get a mortgage approved. A few learned the hard way that a 700 score isn’t enough if your debt-to-income ratio is too high. These aren’t theory pieces—they’re real experiences from buyers, renters, and investors across India and beyond. You’ll see what worked, what didn’t, and how to turn your 700 score into real leverage—not just a number on a screen.