Choosing between VantageScore vs FICO is key for landlords while doing the tenant screening process in 2025. These two main credit scoring models help landlords decide who can rent. Most landlords still use FICO Score 8, but VantageScore 4.0 uses smart tools like machine learning to score renters with little credit history better.
Knowing the VantageScore and FICO difference, recent changes, and what credit score landlords use during the credit checking process can boost your chances. This article covers their differences, score ranges, and how the rental market is changing. We also explain which credit score apartments use and show if apartments use FICO Score 8 or not.
Quick Takeaway Table About VantageScore vs FICO
| Criteria | VantageScore 4.0 | FICO Score 10 |
| Score Range | 300–850 | 300–850 |
| Key Factors | Trended data, credit utilization | Payment history, credit mix |
| Rental Use | Growing adoption in 2025 | Dominant, especially FICO Score 8 |
| Updates in 2025 | Machine learning, thin-file scoring | Bi-merge reporting (2 credit reports) |
| Landlord Preference | Used by some large property managers | Preferred by most landlords (90 %+) |
| Impact on Renters | Rewards consistent debt repayment | Stricter on new credit inquiries |
What Are VantageScore and FICO Scores?
VantageScore and FICO Scores are two major credit scoring models that dominate the credit industry. Both assess credit risk by analyzing credit reports but differ in their algorithms, data usage, and market adoption.
How Credit Scores Are Calculated + Ranges Explained
The FICO credit scoring model weighs payment history at 35% and amounts owed at 30%. It favors on-time payments and low credit usage. VantageScore 4.0 adds trending data, tracking credit changes over time, like paying down balances or raising credit limits responsibly.
This helps renters with good credit habits but shorter histories. For example, a renter who pays off credit cards monthly may see a quicker rise in VantageScore than FICO.
While both use the 300–850 range, their category labels vary slightly:
| FICO Score Range | VantageScore Range |
| 800–850: Exceptional | 781–850: Excellent |
| 740–799: Very Good | 661–780: Good |
| 670–739: Good | 601–660: Fair |
| 580–669: Fair | 500–600: Poor |
| Below 580: Poor | Below 500: Very Poor |
In 2025, the average FICO Score in the U.S. is around 715, while the average VantageScore is approximately 702. Understanding these ranges helps renters know where they stand and what landlords might expect.
Recent Updates and 2025 Trends
In 2025, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) introduced two new credit scoring models: VantageScore 4.0 and FICO Score 10T.
VantageScore 4.0 introduced machine learning to better score people with thin credit files, helping renters with limited credit histories get more accurate scores. Meanwhile, FICO Score 10T allows lenders to use two credit reports instead of three, aiming to improve accuracy and reduce errors.
The transition to these new models is planned for the fourth quarter of 2025, with lenders already piloting FICO 10T scores. The move from tri-merge to optional bi-merge credit reports started in early 2024, allowing lenders to choose two credit bureaus instead of three.
These changes aim to expand credit access but may confuse renters unfamiliar with the differences between models and reporting methods
VantageScore 4.0 vs FICO Score 10: Key Differences in 2025
The 2025 updates highlight important distinctions between these two credit scoring models.
Differences in Algorithms
VantageScore 4.0’s algorithm analyzes 24 months of trended data. This factor includes patterns like rising or falling credit card balances and payment consistency. For example, a renter who steadily lowers their credit card balances will see this positive trend reflected in their VantageScore.
FICO Score 10 focuses more on credit mix and is stricter about new credit inquiries. It penalizes renters who open multiple new accounts in a short time, which can lower the score significantly.
Factors That Are Weighted Differently
| Factor | VantageScore 4.0 | FICO Score 10 |
| Payment History | 28% | 35% |
| Credit Utilization | 23% | 30% |
| Trended Data | 20% | 0% |
| Credit Mix | 10% | 15% |
| New Credit | 10% | 15% |
These differences mean landlords can consider that renters can have varying scores depending on the model used.
Which Credit Score Model Do Landlords Really Use for Screening Tenants in 2025?
For any tenants, knowing the preferred credit score for renting an apartment or any other type of property is highly important. Not only does it help you to understand how this field works, but it can also help you to prepare better before applying. Now, let’s go into the details:
Alt: difference-between-vantage-score-and-fico
FICO Score For Tenants With Long Credit Histories
FICO scores are the traditional credit scoring model widely used by lenders and some landlords. FICO focuses more on established credit behaviors and may be preferred when applicants have longer credit histories. It is often used when landlords want a more conventional measure of credit risk.
VantageScore for Tenants With Limited Credit History
Landlords should consider using VantageScore when evaluating tenants who may have limited or newer credit histories. VantageScore is designed to include more consumers, including those with thin credit files, making it useful for screening applicants who might be overlooked by traditional models.
It also uses trended data and factors in current economic conditions, providing a broader view of credit behavior. This makes it ideal for landlords wanting to assess a wider range of applicants with confidence.
Additional Advice
Many landlords use both scores depending on their screening goals. For new-to-credit applicants or those with shorter histories, VantageScore offers an advantage. For applicants with longer credit histories, FICO may provide a clearer picture. Ultimately, the choice depends on the landlord’s preference and the tenant pool being screened.
How Changes in Credit Scoring Models Affect Renters and Landlords in 2025
Credit checking process and scoring changes in 2025 affect renters and landlords differently.
- For Renters: Paying bills on time and reducing debt helps your VantageScore 4.0 improve faster because it tracks trends. But opening many new accounts quickly can lower your FICO Score 10 due to stricter penalties. Avoid multiple credit inquiries to keep your score stable.
- For Landlords: VantageScore 4.0 helps screen renters with limited credit history, making approvals easier. However, most landlords still prefer FICO for its reliability. Using both scores gives landlords a clearer view of tenant risk.
Renters should watch both FICO Score 8 and VantageScore 4.0 to improve their chances. Landlords benefit by understanding both credit scoring models for better tenant screening.
Conclusion
The debate between VantageScore vs FICO is changing fast in 2025. Many landlords use FICO Score 8 as their main credit score to screen tenants, while others use VantageScore 4.0 since it employs innovative methods to assist renters with minimal credit history. Knowing the differences between a credit score and a FICO score, as well as how each model functions, can empower renters to apply confidently.
Also Read: Advantages of Partnering with Recruitment Agencies in the Trucking Industry
