ToolsSource: HousingWire
Credit pulls get cheaper: TransUnion and Equifax let lenders look before they buy scores
Original headline: “TransUnion, Equifax add flexibility to when lenders pay for scores” — HousingWire, Oct 9, 2026
TransUnion launched First Look Functionality for Mortgage and Equifax launched Mortgage Score Select, both letting lenders review a credit file without buying scores up front, then add Classic FICO or VantageScore 4.0 when a file looks likely to close; Equifax also offers a $1 same-day repull plus the chosen score. The bureaus are pitching lower early-stage credit costs as FHA joins the multimodel score path in 2027.
Our take (opinion & analysis, not reporting)
A cheaper early pull does not change which score priced your buyer's preapproval — ask the LO which bureau tool and which model actually locked the file. Note the score model on the deal in your CRM so the preapproval conversation stays accurate.
Online discussion: no notable public discussion found yet (checked Oct 12, 2026).