CNBC
Mortgage credit scores are evolving. What homebuyers need to know
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Mortgage lenders working with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are now permitted to use VantageScore 4.0 as a credit scoring model for loan decisions. The two government-sponsored enterprises announced the change to their lending guidelines. Lenders previously relied on FICO scores but now have the option to incorporate the alternative scoring method.
