2026 Credit Score Playbook: The Biggest Changes

You may have heard some buzz about credit scores changing, and there’s truth to it. 2026 is shaping up to be a year of transition in how lenders evaluate borrowers, especially when it comes to mortgages. The good news? The basics of healthy credit haven’t changed, which makes these updates easier to navigate—for both Realtors and buyers.

What’s Changing (in Plain Terms)

Lenders now have the option to use newer credit scoring models that look at a broader picture of someone’s financial life. In some cases, things like rent, utility, or phone payments may be considered. This can be especially helpful for buyers who don’t have a long credit history, giving lenders more context when reviewing an application.

Some scoring models are also paying closer attention to patterns over time, not just a single moment. In other words, steady habits are becoming more important than quick credit fixes.

A Few Other Updates Worth Knowing

Here are a few additional shifts that may come up in conversations with buyers:

• Buy Now, Pay Later plans may start appearing on credit reports. Used responsibly, they can help—but missed payments could cause setbacks.

• Medical debt is having less impact on credit reports, which may help some buyers move forward sooner than expected.

• Improved consumer protections are helping speed up credit report corrections and reduce delays tied to errors or identity theft.

What’s Staying the Same

Even with these changes, the core building blocks of good credit are holding steady:

• Paying on time still matters most.

• Keeping balances manageable is key.

• Longer credit histories are still helpful.

• Frequent credit applications can still slow things down.

• A mix of credit types continues to be a positive factor.

How This Helps Us Support Buyers

• Encourage early conversations. A little planning ahead can prevent surprises later in the process.

• Set expectations around timing. With more focus on credit trends over time, buyers benefit from starting sooner rather than later.

• Reinforce consistency. Simple, steady habits often matter more than last-minute changes.

• Loop in BankFirst early. Early collaboration helps align expectations and keeps transactions moving smoothly.

At BankFirst, we’re always happy to be a resource for you and your buyers—working together to make the homebuying process feel a little clearer and a lot less stressful.

* Specific loan program availability and requirements may vary. Please get in touch with your mortgage advisor for more information.