I've been a myfico subscripber since 2006. At the time my credit score was 560 (EX). I have always had a well paying job ($100K+) but could never get a handle on my finances (spend too much). By 2008 I got my spending under control but was still unable to get over a 600 credit Score. The issue was that each time I paid down my cards they would reduce my credit limit which completely screwed my score. Chase was not helping me at all. And since I made a decent salary I was able to pay cash for most things but did not have good credit (I spent $35K on my debit card last year).
Late last year I found this forum and decided to take a personal loan for my remaining balace on my Chase card. To my surprise they did not drop by credit limit and it added 50 points to my credit score (All Credit agencies reporting around 655 to 675). I applied for the BJs Master Card and was approved instantly. I was very surprised to finally be approved for something. Since I've been ustilizing my debit card for so many years I just made it a habit to pay my card on a weekly basis. This way my account was always PIF by the end of the month. A few months later I applied for the Venture card and was also instantly approved. I was able to get the bonus within one month and my wife and I enjoyed a vacation (flight paid for by venture). Now my credit scores were 695/700/710. I continued to pay my credit cards on a weekly basis and by Feb. I was approved for a AMEX PRG (This is my go to card for all purchases now). I still wanted the Chase SP but when I applied I was denied because of my prior relationship with them. I was also interested in the AMEX Plat. but could not justify using it over PRG even with the perks.I will be flying two to three time a year and really wanted lounge access. Enter Citi Prestige; all of the reviews I've read have it as a better option than AMEX Plat. I decided that I would apply for this card at the end of the year (did not think I would get approved until my scores are 720 to 750).
I could not wait and fell out of the garden to apply for the card. I had to call to confirm some data but was approved over the phone (Scores 685/706/733). I am now content (not interested in CSP anymore). I am definitly proof that anything is possible with patience and restraint.