Ever since lending tightened several years ago, some people assume that getting a mortgage is out of reach for those without pristine credit. But All My Sons’ Columbus Moving Company has some good news for would-be homebuyers: there are a number of reasonable mortgage options for people who may have experienced a financial speed bump or two.

While it is true that borrowers with excellent FICO credit scores (roughly 740 or higher) have an easier time securing the most attractive rates, people with lower scores need not become discouraged. Conventional loans are generally available for buyers with scores of 680 or above who are willing to make a 5 percent down payment. With a score below 680, applying for a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan may be your best bet. Because the U.S. government insures these loans, many lenders are willing to offer competitive interest rates to a larger pool of borrowers. Some lenders even offer FHA loans to potential homebuyers with scores under 620. However, the lower your credit score, the larger your down payment requirement is likely to be.

No matter where your credit score falls, obtaining the best mortgage deal requires careful planning and patience. But one thing that should not deter you is the belief that you have to have an unblemished credit score in order to find the home of your dreams.