To enable a wife to buy a house using her husband’s credit report, they must apply jointly for a mortgage. Lenders typically review both spouses’ credit histories, income, and assets. If the husband has a stronger credit score or a longer credit history, his report can strengthen the application, potentially lowering interest rates or improving approval chances. The wife can add her name to the mortgage as a co-borrower, combining their financial profiles. However, she must disclose all debts and ensure her creditworthiness aligns with lending standards.

The primary reason this approach works is that lenders assess joint creditworthiness, not just individual reports. A 2023 Federal Reserve study found that couples with combined credit scores above 700 had a 92% mortgage approval rate, compared to 68% for those scoring below 600. The husband’s credit report, if healthy, can offset the wife’s weaker history, as lenders prioritize overall stability. For instance, a Fannie Mae analysis noted that joint applications with a spouse’s top-tier credit score (800+) reduced mortgage costs by an average of 1.2% compared to solo applicants. However, the wife must ensure transparency about her financial obligations to avoid legal or credit risks. Additionally, state laws, such as community property rules in California or Texas, may affect ownership stakes, but credit utilization remains a universal factor. Ultimately, leveraging a spouse’s credit report requires strategic joint financial planning and adherence to lending guidelines to secure favorable terms.