What happens when credit is the thing holding you back, but you do not want to talk about it out loud? In this episode of The Pursuit of Home, Scott Harris talks with mortgage loan officer, author, and credit educator Kristi Nowrouzi about how credit impacts mortgage approval and rates, and what first-time buyers can do to get mortgage ready without shame or overwhelm. Kristi shares her own experience being told no, why credit solutions are never one size fits all, and how education became the focus of her work. Scott also reflects on his own credit scare and the stress that can come with even a small ding. If you are planning to buy in the next 6 to 24 months, this episode offers a calmer framework and practical steps you can start using now.

Here are some of the topics we discuss:

• Why credit is one of the top drivers of mortgag ...