<prompt> Human: So after several months of discussion my parents and I have decided to get them to apply for a USDA Rural development loan as the payments and fees including utilities comes out to much less than their current rent for an apartment here in SC. I would be a cosigner My MomMe as their credit is not that great due to some issues several years ago. Now I am 20, with a stable income and moderate savings. I have a 770 fico score as well. My main question was, from what I understand, is that if they get a lien placed against the house that it effects both of us, how badly would it hurt my credit score?  <response>: A lien means that your house is not available for sale by you because you do actually own the item. The lien will not affect your credit; taking out a large loan will. This does not matter unless you plan to open more new lines of credit soon. 