Tenant screening through Rentec Direct now utilizes VantageScore® for credit scores to effectively screen prospective tenants. Rentec Direct works with StarPoint to provide credit screening services, and their screening model has switched from FICO® credit reporting to the VantageScore reporting model. A VantageScore is considered to be more reliable for tenant screening purposes, giving landlords and property managers more data to make an informed decision.
As of July 1st 2026, Rentec Direct tenant screening credit reports will allow managers and landlords to effectively screen more applicants than ever before. This is due to a transition from utilizing the FICO® credit score model to the VantageScore® for credit reports. While both scoring models are trusted by many prominent financial institutions and provide helpful, well-calculated credit scores, a VantageScore can offer additional benefits for the rental industry.
Rentec Direct Tenant Screening Credit Reports Now Use VantageScore®
VantageScore can generate a score with less credit history. FICO scores require at least six months of credit history before a score can be generated. This means landlords and property managers won’t be limited when screening applicants who have newer credit histories. A VantageScore is considered to be more reliable for tenant screening purposes, giving landlords and property managers more data to make an informed decision.
Learn more: Coming Soon: VantageScore Credit Scores for Rentec Direct Tenant Screening Credit Reports
VantageScore vs. FICO at a Glance
| Feature | VantageScore® | FICO® Score |
|---|---|---|
| Score Range | 300–850 | Usually 300–850 |
| Minimum Credit History | As little as 1 month | Often 6 months or more |
| Scores More Thin-File Consumers | Yes | More Limited |
| Developed By | Equifax, Experian, TransUnion | Fair Isaac Corporation |
| Widely Used by Lenders | Growing Adoption | Historically Most Widely Used |
| Consumer Accessibility | Broadly Available | Broadly Available |
Common Factors Considered by Both Models
Both VantageScore and FICO generally evaluate:
- Payment history
- Credit utilization
- Length of credit history
- Credit mix
- Recent credit inquiries
- Overall credit behavior
Learn more: Coming Soon: VantageScore Credit Scores for Rentec Direct Tenant Screening Credit Reports
How do VantageScore and FICO scores measure creditworthiness?
Standard base FICO Scores range from 300 to 850. FICO classifies your creditworthiness into the following tiers:
- Exceptional: 800 to 850
- Very Good: 740 to 799
- Good: 670 to 739
- Fair: 580 to 669
- Poor: 579 and below
The VantageScore credit score range is 300 to 850. The model categorizes creditworthiness into four tiers:
- Excellent: 781–850
- Good: 661–780
- Fair: 601–660
- Poor / Very Poor: 300–600
Final Thoughts
VantageScore’s primary advantage is its ability to score more consumers and provide lenders with a broader view of creditworthiness, particularly for consumers with limited or newer credit histories. FICO remains widely used throughout the lending industry, but VantageScore continues to gain adoption due to its inclusiveness, modern analytics, and ability to score a larger segment of the population. This makes VantageScore ideal for rental industry professionals who need to successfully screen any applicant who applies for your rental.
