What else Affects my Chances for Qualifying for a Loan?

A credit score is just one component of the credit evaluation. This is especially so in the case of mortgages and car loans. In examining these types of applications, a lender will look beyond your raw credit score to scrutinize your payment history, among other things. For instance, the fact that the late payments on your credit report were on a small credit card (as opposed to a mortgage) could work in your favor. Lenders also take into account such factors as your income and earning potential, both indicators of your ability to repay a loan. Two borrowers with above-average FICO scores of 660 can get different interest rates, based on their existing debt burden and ability to meet required payments based on their income.