Originally Posted by Sly

Credit scores will impact your rate. Your rate will impact your loan. Better score, better rate, better loan.

I've seen tables that show how a 100 point swing can save or cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. I personally would hold off on buying a house until 1) most, if not all, debt is paid off 2) my credit score was higher, 700s at least and 3) a decent/sizable down payment on hand. There is no real reason to rush into buying a house... houses will be available tomorrow and the day after that and the day after that. Get your finances straightened out first and save yourself a boatload of cash.

Think about it... waiting just one year to straighten out your finances can literally save you hundreds of thousands of dollars.