Score Comparison
CreditKarma / Vantage
Not used by all lenders
FICO (Credit Card)
Not a mortgage score
FICO 5, 4, 2 (Mortgage)
What lenders actually use
Why does this matter?
Scores can vary by 20–50+ points between models. Using the wrong score can give you a false sense of security before applying.
Mortgage Credit Scores
Understanding Mortgage Credit Scores
When applying for a mortgage, your credit score plays a crucial role in determining your eligibility and terms. However, it's important to know that not all credit scores are created equal.
Common Credit Scoring Models
- Vantage Scores: Often seen on platforms like CreditKarma.com — not used by all lenders, but now accepted through select programs
- FICO Scores: Typically offered through credit card companies
Important: While these scores can provide a general idea of your credit health, they are not the scores most mortgage lenders use. Some programs now accept VantageScore® 4.0 — see below.
What Scores Do Mortgage Lenders Use?
Mortgage lenders rely on specific scoring models called "Mortgage FICO 5, 4, 2." These scores can be accessed through a hard or soft inquiry by a lender, however the cost of obtaining these scores has increased in recent years. Generally we want to hold off pulling these reports for the lender as long as possible.
Credit Freeze? You Must Lift It First
If your credit is frozen at any of the three bureaus, we cannot pull your mortgage credit report. You must request a permanent lift before we can proceed.
Call to confirm the lift has been processed.
Call to confirm the lift has been processed.
Call to confirm the lift has been processed.
VantageScore® 4.0 Now Available
More Ways to Qualify for a Mortgage
Traditional credit scoring models do not always tell the full story. We now offer access to mortgage options that use VantageScore® 4.0, giving certain borrowers another potential path toward homeownership.
VantageScore 4.0 is a modern credit scoring model that evaluates more than a single snapshot of your credit. It uses trended credit data to consider how balances and payment patterns have changed over time.
The model can also evaluate consumers with a shorter credit history and may consider reported alternative payment information, including rent, utilities, and telecommunications accounts. This may help provide a more complete picture for borrowers who have limited traditional credit.
Potential Benefits
Another opportunity to qualify
Certain borrowers who cannot generate a usable score under older models may be scoreable with VantageScore 4.0.
A broader view of your credit
The model reviews balance and payment trends over time, rather than relying solely on your current balances.
Recognition of additional payment history
Reported rent, utility, and telecommunications payments may be considered.
More loan options to explore
Depending on the loan program and your qualifications, we can determine which available credit-scoring approach may provide the strongest financing opportunity.
Improve Your CreditSecure Better Rates
Blue Water Credit offers services aimed at improving your credit score through personalized credit repair strategies, debt settlement, and credit-building guidance.
How Better Credit Helps You Buy a Home
- Higher credit scores increase your chances of mortgage approval
- Access to more favorable loan terms and interest rates
- Better creditworthiness means larger loan amounts available
By addressing negative items on your credit report and providing guidance on effective credit management, Blue Water Credit can help you achieve the creditworthiness needed to secure a mortgage for your home purchase.
