Homebuyers: Lending Standards Are Still Tight, but New Credit Scores May Help

After 30 years guiding borrowers through the mortgage maze, I’ve seen how lending standards can tighten and make homebuying feel just out of reach—especially right now, with home sales hovering near a 31-year low. High mortgage rates and rising costs aren’t helping, either. While new credit scoring models are starting to count rent and utility payments—a long-overdue change—many folks, particularly low-income and minority buyers, still aren’t getting a fair shot, even with strong payment histories and low default rates. I’ve always believed a person's real story is more than just numbers on a page, especially for those whose income doesn’t fit the standard mold. Navigating these hurdles takes experience and a deep understanding of what lenders look for—and sometimes, a little creativity to get the right fit across the finish line.