If you're planning to buy a house, managing your credit score is vital. Mortgage lenders use credit scores as a benchmark for qualification, and a lower score can hurt your chances of being approved for a mortgage.
Here are some more details about how credit scores affect your mortgage loan chances:
The customary loan application process requires a credit score of at least 620. It's possible to get a mortgage with a lower score, but you may have a higher interest rate as a result.
The loan officer obtains a single credit report containing all three credit report types. The lenders may use your credit score or lower middle credit score to decide if a joint partner applies.
Mortgage lenders require higher credit scores because they use it as a way to measure how well you handle outstanding debt. The higher your credit score is, the less risk you pose to their lending. You could end up saving thousands over the life of your loan and capitalize on a lower monthly payment.
It's possible to get a mortgage with a low credit score, but there are trade-offs to be aware of. With conventional loans, a lower credit score might require a higher down payment or private mortgage insurance.
Other loan options like VA loans or loans offered by the Federal Housing Administration have more flexibility when it comes to minimum credit score. However, these mortgage loans come with other specific requirements for approval.
Maintaining a good payment history and credit report will help you in more ways than just getting a mortgage. However, for a major purchase like a home, it's crucial to have the best possible financial standing before beginning the process.
Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!
With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley.
David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.
We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.
If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.
-TheHickoxTeam
Every Home Begins with 'H"
Keller Williams Realty River Cities
Meet David
"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."
-Evelyn Forston
I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.
I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.
As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.
Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, watching the Braves and SEC football, working out, spending time with family and my sweet fiancé, Evelyn.
Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.
Call me at 912-596-4261
Meet Evelyn
Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾
I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.
I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.
Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.
I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.
I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox and my two pups, Cupcake and Aubs. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.
Call me at 205-901-6756
💫 Explore what’s happening in the area:
Chattahoochee Valley Living Calendar
#ResidentialAndCommercial #RealtorLife #Teamwork #YourNextMoveStartsHere
Keller Williams Realty River Cities-Official
