Usually yes. Credit card balances factor into your debt-to-income ratio and your credit score, so paying them down helps, but you don't need to be debt-free to buy.
You don't have to be completely debt-free. Credit card debt matters in two ways: it's part of your debt-to-income ratio, and high balances relative to your limits can drag down your credit score.
So while you can buy with credit card debt, paying balances down — especially below about 30% of each card's limit — can both improve your score and free up room in your budget. A lender can show you exactly where you stand and what, if anything, is worth paying off first. Sometimes a small move makes a big difference in your rate.
This answer is general education, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Your situation is unique — let's talk through the specifics together.
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