Zillow And Esusu Expand Credit-building For Renters

Zillow is expanding its rent reporting program through a new partnership with Esusu, allowing renters across the U.S. to use their on-time rent payments to build credit history.

The partnership allows any renter — not just those who pay rent through Zillow — to have on-time payments reported to all major credit bureaus for $20 per year.

Starting in November, renters can verify their lease details and payment method, and Zillow and Esusu will handle the reporting process.

“Paying rent is often a renter’s biggest and most consistent monthly expense. It makes sense that this payment should help build their credit,” said Michael Sherman, senior vice president of Zillow Rentals. “By expanding rent reporting, we’re helping more renters build their credit history and take control of their financial future while reinforcing Zillow’s role as a trusted partner throughout their housing journey.”

Rent reporting benefits

Zillow first launched free rent reporting in early 2024 for renters who pay through its platform. The company said it has already reported on-time payments for more than 141,000 renters.

Esusu — which specializes in rent reporting — has found that renters in its program see an average credit score increase of 45 points.

Together, Zillow and Esusu said they aim to help millions of renters strengthen their credit profiles and move closer to homeownership.

“At Esusu, we believe everyone deserves credit for paying their rent on time,” stated Esusu co-founders and co-CEOs Wemimo Abbey and Samir Goel. “By including rent in the credit system, we’re helping to build economic mobility and unlock the American Dream for millions.

“We are proud to partner with Zillow to reimagine financial access and open the pathway to homeownership and generational wealth.”

Credit gap, policy changes

According to TransUnion, about 87% of renters currently do not see their rent payments reflected in their credit reports.

That gap can make it harder for renters with little or no credit history to qualify for loans or mortgages.

The companies said renters who participate could see meaningful improvements in financial readiness for future housing opportunities.

Federal housing policy changes announced earlier this year have made rent reporting more impactful.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now accept loans using VantageScore 4.0 — a model that incorporates rental payment history into lending decisions.

Esusu said renters on its platform have already unlocked more than $30 billion in mortgages after having their rent payments reported.

Renters can sign up through Zillow to begin reporting payments monthly. More details about the program are available here.