The “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy used by the DoD has existed now for more than fifteen years. That policy’s days may be numbered as President Obama had openly vowed to rescind the policy as part of his administration’s actions on social equality. However, his intention was not realized soon enough for Army Lieutenant Dan Choi, a 2003 West Point graduate and Iraqi Freedom combat veteran, who recently joined the New York National Guard only to be discharged for his homosexuality. While the issue’s recent development has been simmering on the backburner for several months, LT Choi’s situation may have forced it back into the forefront. The Secretary of Defense is already speaking out about possible exceptions of applicability to the policy and its effect on service members. As LT Choi’s situation will show, the policy is forcing out soldiers with much needed skills (he speaks fluent Arabic) and also creating a situation were combat veterans will be denied earned benefits by the nature of the policy’s discharge.

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First home buyers with poor credit have many options when it comes to financing their purchase. You do not have to worry about getting approved, since almost all applications will be accepted today. Instead, you should focus on the best rates and costs for your home loan.

Before you start home loan shopping, make sure that your credit is in order. Even with bad credit, you must check for any errors in your credit report. You can also sent a letter in which the circumstances surrounding a late payment or bankruptcy. Some lenders will adjust your credit score and speed information can be checked.

You can also use your credit score to see where you stand. A score of 600 or higher will get you by most conventional lenders. You can pay for your score with a reporting agency or received free as part of an introductory offer with a credit monitoring service.

Down payments can also change your rates. For the lowest rates, drop 20% or more. Remember that you can tap that money with a home equity loan if you’re in a pinch.

You should also look at your budget and see what you can pay for a house payment. The cost of taxes, homeowners insurance and home repairs. With this number you can determine how much you can afford to borrow.

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