Credit Scores, Debt, and Buying A Home
Credit Scores, Debt, and Buying A Home  
Podcast: Money Sense
Published On: Tue Apr 28 2026
Description: With Americans carrying over $1.27 trillion in credit card debt, understanding how credit actually works and how it impacts homeownership is more important than ever. In this episode of Money Sense, Kristina Schnuckel, wealth advisor and director of client experience at Ellenbecker Investment Group, is joined by Ben Revak, senior loan advisor at ProVisor Inc., for a practical conversation about credit scores, consumer debt and buying a home. They break down common myths around credit card debt, explain what truly affects a credit score, and discuss why having debt does not automatically disqualify someone from homeownership. The episode also explores the difference between good and bad debt, how to prepare financially before buying a home, and what buyers should consider when thinking about mortgage rates and timing the market. 00:00 Why Credit Scores Matter01:40 Credit Card Debt & Homeownership Myths07:33 What Really Makes Up a Credit Score15:55 Good Debt vs. Bad Debt (Mortgages Explained)20:35 How to Prepare for Buying a Home30:15 Mortgage Rates, Timing the Market & What to Know Now  New episodes of Money Sense drop weekly. Subscribe for more conversations about aligning your money with what matters most. #MoneySense #Homeownership #CreditScoreTips #DebtEducation #MortgageBasics #FinancialWellBeing #FirstTimeHomebuyer #MoneySensePodcast #FinancialPlanning ELLENBECKER INVESTMENT GROUP Presenter of the Money Sense Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations. Website: ellenbecker.com This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.