 TITLE: What Is Consumer Credit? CONTENT: The Bottom Line\n---------------\nConsumer credit comes with trade-offs: You balance the freedom and convenience of borrowing money with the costs and potential pitfalls of debt. For instance, a mortgage gives you the freedom to buy a home, but falling behind on mortgage payments could harm your credit history and might even lead to the loss of the home. If you're careful with consumer credit, however, the freedom and convenience can far outweigh the risks.\nTo keep on top of managing your consumer credit, get your free credit report and free credit score from Experian. END