Don't let the fact that you're spending time getting organized result in late fees on your credit card bills.

You also need to understand that when you consolidate credit card debt into mortgage debt - like a home equity loan or a HELOC [ home equity line of credit ] - you're taking an unsecured debt and turning it into a secured debt.

Even in the days of the tightest credit in 2008, HELOCs [ home equity line of credit ] and home equity loans were being made.

If you'd asked me a few years ago about debt settlement companies, I probably would have told you to avoid them.

If you have even a smidgen of doubt that you'll be able to stay away from racking up additional debt, don't do it.

If you are able to settle, you'll be getting off rather easy. Debt settlement companies can sometimes get you off the hook for a large percentage of your debt - in many cases, up to 50% will be written off.

Rolling all of your debts into a single loan is a good idea - in theory. In fact, it can be a great idea.