Credit scores in the United States have been declining, with over 40 million Americans now having credit scores below 600. Conventional loans have become increasingly difficult to obtain for those with less than perfect credit or insufficient down payments. It is estimated that 35-40% of Americans now have credit scores below 640, meaning about half the population may not qualify for institutional financing. This poses problems both for individuals seeking loans and for the broader housing market and economy. The document discusses alternative financing options such as lease-purchase agreements, all-inclusive trust deeds, and contracts for deed as potential solutions to help more people participate in the housing market.