I turned my credit from nuclear to excellent in a few years and got a mortgage based on my 16/HR job I've had for 6 months. 120k at 3.25% interest over 30 years. Felt suspiciously easy but we're not worried about it because we've been sand bagging our income for Medicaid and SSI for our kid. Just felt like they were in the "get as much debt as possible" mode.

This is upstate NY so we got a 2000 sq ft 4 bedroom 2 full bathroom colonial on public sewage. Modern renovations, huge basement and a walk up attic. Even qualified for 16k in state money for updates, just waiting on consultations with contractors. Family of 5 and my wife isn't even working.

I know this is a humble brag but I feel like this is an old school rare deal but can still be found for a while if anyone's looking. Between our SSI and ability to take on a second income if needed means we reached below our means but I'm sure some reached beyond under the same terms. Just an angle to consider while the gettings good.