I think the general trend is find a place and then start damage control. In a few years I'll start looking again when DTI numbers make more sense.
Starting Score: 675
Thanks for sharing. I'm going to add get stock in wine, beer, or whatever your beverage of choice is 
you can't go wrong with that mama
Starting Score: EQ: 532, EX: 569, TU: 621 (All lender pull 10/15/11)
Thank you for posting the link to this article. I really like the part about banking the difference between what I pay now for rent vs. what my mortgage payment would be. I will be able to see if I can actually afford the new bigger payment plus have some money saved up for whatever I may need it for.