New for 2026: VantageScore 4.0 is now an approved mortgage credit-score model for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, with broader lender acceptance directed in September 2026. Availability can still depend on lender implementation and loan type.
VantageScore 4.0
What changed, how it differs from legacy mortgage scoring, and what borrowers should know.
Read Guide →FICO vs. Mortgage Scores
Why your free consumer score can differ from the score a mortgage lender obtains.
Credit Utilization
Why revolving balances and statement timing can matter even when every payment is on time.
Hard Inquiries
How mortgage-shopping inquiries generally work and why rate shopping is different from repeatedly opening new accounts.
Collections & Late Payments
How derogatory credit may affect underwriting differently depending on program and timing.
Before You Apply
Practical steps borrowers can review before a mortgage application without making risky last-minute credit moves.
Important
Credit-score requirements and underwriting treatment vary by loan program and lender. Educational material here is not a promise of approval.