x2 on the Ramsey - there's your professional help, read his book, follow his radio show, make him a god.

If they operate in your state, I'd go have a talk with Wells Fargo. They seem a lot friendlier to young people and above average risk situations, unless you've got charge-offs and/or repos - which you say you don't. W-Fargo can be pretty forgiving about your lack of equity positions if they think you've got a secure job. I'd be looking at any thing I can collatoralize, car titles, coin collections, any thing, and have it ready to present to them - they like to see some collateral. They have been one of the big winners in the current downturn, they've certainly got the cash. You don't say how old you are, but WF likes to work with young people because they think a mortgage and steady car loans will be in it for them in the long haul if they can get you straight.