I've been taking a lot of practice tests, and my scores range from an 80 to 66. 

I have the credit score, 3.5%, work history, and income.

However, my credit still is bad, lower 600 score. 

Other driveways in the neighborhood have the same problem to a lesser extent.

It often gives you a place to start negotiations and for you to see their profit margin.School Ratings- Although I definitely recommend you double check the Great School scores; I love that it gives me a great starting point.

I started building credit when I was 16 luckily so my credit score is in the low 700s right now.

Your interest rate is pretty much determined by your credit score.  

It become a challenge of who can score material under budget.

In my experience most issues that need immediate attention are water / plumbing related and to a lesser extent electrical.  

The pricing there is sky high especially manhattan beach, el segundo, and up into santa monica areas.The other thing you can do is  use a stated income program, but this only works if you have some sort of self employment, 700 min fico score, 25-30% down, and lots of cash reserves.