***UPDATE***
I'm so happy! I sarted the year at below 500, and as of yesterday I'm at 565 and 567 with EQ and TU, respectively! Thus far, I've only disputed some things and written a couple of goodwill letters and managed to get 4 or 5 items removed. I have several more, and am definitely working on those.
I've also taken a credit "rebuilder loan" with a local credit union. Basically, that's a glorified savings account that reports my monthly payments to the bureaus. I've also been added as an AU to one card with a 40K+ limit and no late payments. Lastly, I opened a secured visa. These new lines haven't reported yet, so hopefully in another 4-6 weeks I'll have more good news to share!
My goal is to qualify for a mortgage sometime this summer, with a score of 640. Then I'm on my way into the 700 club!
Starting Score: 498