Credit scores

Consumer credit scores are improving, but many qualified borrowers are still hesitant about buying a house. New tools are helping lenders better assess risk and show consumers with lower credit scores they can qualify for mortgages.

The gap between the average credit score for homebuyers and other consumers has widened to its highest point in 12 years, and lenders don't know what, if anything, to do about it.

The average credit score of loans made to members of the millennial generation were a little lower than they were a year ago, according to Ellie Mae.

The two government-sponsored enterprises have relied on the “classic” FICO credit scoring model for the past 12 years. But the Federal Housing Finance Agency is weighing whether the GSEs should upgrade to more recent scoring alternatives.

Over half of mortgage industry executives anticipate first-time home buyer growth in 2018, estimating that market will grow at a faster pace than the overall housing market, according to Genworth Financial.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is seeking more information about consumers' experience with free access to credit scores.

Consumer credit varies nationally due to regional variations in income and the cost of living. To get a sense of where it's strongest and weakest, here's a look at the five best and worst states for consumer credit scores.

The percentage of refinance loans rose in September as interest rates dipped to a 2017 low, according to Ellie Mae.

CFPB Director Richard Cordray is using the Equifax breach to suggest the CFPB be given power to examine credit reporting agencies for potential cybersecurity lapses.

Richard Smith came to Capitol Hill this week to speak about the massive breach at Equifax, but it was clear Tuesday that he will be defending the entire credit reporting industry.