What Credit Score Do You Need to Finance Land?
You Don’t Always Need a Credit Score to Buy Land
If you've been browsing land for sale and wondering if your credit score will hold you back, you’re not alone. Most people assume that, like buying a house, financing land requires a strong credit history, income verification, and approval from a bank. But that’s not always the case—especially if you’re buying rural land in Utah.
In fact, at Mountains West Ranches, we don’t run credit checks at all. If you’ve got a down payment and a way to make monthly payments, you’re likely eligible to buy land today.
Why Traditional Lenders Don’t Like Land Loans
Here’s the truth: most banks and credit unions don’t love issuing loans for raw land. Why?
Land doesn’t generate income. It’s not like a house with rent or a business with cash flow.
It has no structure. Without a home or building, there’s no physical asset to hold as collateral.
It’s riskier to develop. Especially if the land is off-grid or in a remote area, banks worry about resale value and future development.
Because of these risks, lenders tend to play it safe. They often require:
Credit scores of 680 or higher
Down payments of 20% to 50%
Additional paperwork and appraisals
High interest rates (if they approve you at all)
This makes it tough for everyday people—especially first-time buyers or those with imperfect credit—to secure land through a bank.
What Is In-House Land Financing?
In-house financing is when the land seller acts as the lender. Instead of applying through a bank, you make monthly payments directly to the company that owns the land.
At Mountains West Ranches, this is how most of our buyers choose to finance.
Here’s how our in-house financing works:
No credit checks — We won’t ask for a credit score or credit history.
Low down payments — Many of our lots start with just $1,000 down.
Affordable monthly payments — We work with you to set a monthly payment that fits your budget.
Simple, fast process — No underwriting, no waiting for bank approval.
Who Benefits Most From No-Credit-Check Land Loans?
Our financing program is built to help real people buy land—especially those who might not qualify through a traditional lender. That includes:
People with low or no credit
Retirees living on fixed income
Self-employed buyers or gig workers
Buyers who’ve had a bankruptcy or credit challenges
Anyone looking to skip the red tape of a traditional loan
If you’ve been turned down by a bank, don’t give up. You may still have options.
What Type of Land Can You Finance?
Most of our in-house financing is offered on 5- to 10-acre parcels in areas like Duchesne, Fruitland, and Argyle Canyon. These lots are perfect for:
Weekend getaways
Camping and recreation
Off-grid living
Homesteading
Future cabins or retirement plans
You don’t need to build right away. Many buyers use their land casually for years before deciding to develop it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a co-signer or guarantor?
No. If you meet the basic down payment and income requirements, you can buy on your own.
What documents do I need to apply?
Just a valid photo ID and a completed ACH authorization form if you’re setting up bank payments. No pay stubs, credit checks, or tax returns needed.
Can I pay off my land early?
Yes! There’s no prepayment penalty, and you can pay off your loan any time.
The Bottom Line: Land Financing Is More Flexible Than You Think
Don’t let your credit score be the reason you miss out on owning land. Whether you're planning to build in the future, use it for recreation, or just want a place to call your own, in-house financing gives you the freedom to get started—no bank required.
Ready to learn more?
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