Revolutionary Mortgage Update
In a significant shift for the mortgage industry, lenders are now treating VantageScore and FICO scores equally when assessing regular home loans, effective September 30, 2026. Historically, lenders charged a premium for using VantageScore, resulting in higher costs for some borrowers. This fee has now been eliminated, allowing lenders to choose the more favorable score for their clients, potentially lowering mortgage rates.
Rick E Schmille, affectionately known as 'The Mortgage Grandfather,' emphasizes the importance of this change. He advises borrowers to confirm with their lenders that both scores are checked to ensure they benefit from this update. This noteworthy shift is seen as a win for homeowners and prospective buyers alike, bringing much-needed flexibility and cost savings to the borrowing process. As these changes roll out, industry experts suggest staying informed and discussing options with lenders to fully capitalize on this development.

