I didn't pay early, this month shows a balance and score went up 10 points over the previous month, that seems to possibly been the issue, have to see if it climbs each month, 1 month isn't really enough to know, but hey it moved upward.

It's referred to as AZEO, and is known as the most efficient way to a higher score. All Zero Except One.

Keep that one below the 9.8% utilization that gains the best score and you will see it rising rapidly so long as you have 3 open trade lines and a mix of credit types.

One sure way of getting a lowering your score is to co sign for a family member. Lessons learned.

Yes, co-signing is generally a terrible idea, imo, with this being just one of the potential pitfalls.

All of the risk and none of the benefits of the product financed.

No thanks.

Depends on what you class as a benefit, if one of my kids needs me to co-sign for a mortgage or they'll live with me until they're 40 you can bet your ass I'll be co-signing.

... until you discover that it prevents you from subsequently taking out credit you need.

I can certainly see where co-signing might make sense, but I've heard of so many people screwing themselves by doing it that I'm personally incredibly leery of it.

I think in general a parent would think this way, but on principal one would not do it unless they can afford to take the hit.
In recent months I have seen more co signers on mortgages than in previous years. It suggests to me that there is not enough real creditworthiness out there >subprime>crash

They shouldn't be living with you until their 40 anyway - get a job and rent a place, I'm not bailing you out.

I left home at 18 and never looked back, they can do the same. Stand on your own 2 feet, it builds character.

The 100 point FICO score hit from a single 30 day late? For 7 years? The hit to DTI and your own ability to borrow if required? Nope.

Then again, I don't have kids, and this is just one of the many many many reasons I don't want any.

If banks with all their capital and credit knowledge won't take an educated gamble on a person then I sure won't.

I know some who have had their parents co-sign for their mortgages. All professionals in good paying jobs as well, but housing is expensive here and unless making 6 figures its hard to get a mortgage on your own hence parents co-signing mortgages and/or providing the massive down payment needed.

Bigger down payment, larger income, or a smaller house.

Not what I mean. Parents with everything paid off and enough assets to cover the debt and don't need any more loans. That is not everyone. Tbh I had to borrow from my folks at 40 to get a mortgage after divorce. I am lucky,, most of my coworkers are renters. And my dad wants me to move back with him now. Nope.

Hey Justin
Don't take it to heart. The fact is it is hard. Most people on here big up their big moments. Some of us just barely get by but don't post the worst bits. I know you mostly post the worst bits and it helps
me keep a perspective.. Your opinion & experience are noted and not to be disregarded. Hang in there
RICH.

What world do you live in where any of those things are realistic for a vast percentage of people? Tone deaf to reality.