Fannie & Freddie Just Shook Up Credit Scoring

1. Major Credit Score Update: VantageScore 4.0 Now Accepted

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now accept VantageScore 4.0 for home loans—making it easier for more buyers to qualify. Unlike traditional FICO models, VantageScore 4.0 includes alternative data like rent, utility, and phone payments, helping expand access to mortgage credit for millions of Americans.

What this means for buyers:

• More people can qualify—especially first-time buyers and those with limited credit history.
• Rent and utility payments now count toward your score.
• Lower costs and more competition in credit scoring could benefit you.

Thinking of Buying a Home?

This change could work in your favor. Whether your credit is strong or still growing, Seeking Agents® connects you with agents who compete to earn your business—so you can compare, save, and move forward with confidence.