My husband and I have rented properties together for over 15 years. Never missed a payment. Paying sometimes double what a mortgage would be for the same property if we owned it. 

Because we have paid so much, as a family of 4, we are not able to save for a deposit. Also our credit score isn't as good as it could be, mainly because we have always chosen to pay the rent before any other bill, as a roof over our head is the most important thing.

Just think if criteria to enable us to be accepted for a mortgage was to change...

Rent a property for minimum 5 years and pay rent, on time every month, with the reference from the landlord to say you were good tenants. Then be accepted for a mortgage, if you want one. 

The rental market would become more acceptable in price, as not so many would need to rent. Landlords would get tenants for longer, who have a valid reason to pay on time and be good tenants (actually be rewarded for this). The housing market would blossom as more people would be accepted for mortgages who have actually proved they can pay. The economy would also benefit, as people would have more disposable income.

Rather than a credit score to tell banks if I can afford a mortgage, use real life facts to back up an application.