Dear Friend, Hello and welcome...

I appreciate that you have recognized this issue and wish to plan it and address it systematically well in time before you need to buy a condo.

sure.. I appreciate this.

To begin with, I would advice you to adopt a very reliable and time tested technique to slowly and gradually build up credit.

First of all, I would advice you to get a "Secured Credit Card".

The following is a excellent reference material for you. So, I would repeat or reproduce here to avoid confusion.

http://www.bankrate.com/finance/credit-cards/10-questions-before-getting-a-secured-credit-card-1.aspx#1

A secured card requires a cash collateral deposit that becomes the credit line for that account. For example, if you put $500 in the account; you can charge up to $500.

Having said this, you should use this card and make full payments every month (not the monthly minimums). This will help you begin and build your credit over some time.

Certainly YES.. Approach any bank and they will help you with this.

Further to this, after doing this for some time, apply for a regular credit card and keep doing the same, i.e. spend and make full payments every month (not the monthly minimums).

Though slowly and gradually, this will help you build a very good credit over a period of time.

You have sufficient and enough time to do this.

Feel free to revert for any queries. Rate this answer ONLY IF you are done with this and if this helps and satisfies you.

One can not put any specific numbered time limit that can improve your credit score. HOWEVER, if you do this, consistently for 2-3 years, without any default, you will certainly see the credit improving a lot.

Along with this, importantly, you will also need to take care of your debt to income ratio. i.e. avoid the debt that you dont require.

You are most welcome.. It was pleasure assisting you.