TransUnion recently released their analysis of trends in the mortgage industry for the third quarter of 2009 and the associated impact on the U.S. consumer.  The study is conducted using data from 27 million anonymous credit files representing 10% of the US consumer based.

The study found that mortgage loan delinquencies have increased, yet again, for the eleventh quarter in a row! This is an all time high of 6.25% and does not account for those who are already in foreclosure.  The good news ( if you can call it that) is that the rate of increase has slowed down.

What does this mean?  Well, clearly,  US credit scores have significantly dropped.  The average American credit score is lower today than it was 10 years ago and a 600 credit score is no longer a good thing.

Meanwhile, US consumers are finding it more and more difficult to obtain financing for major purchases.  Buying a house, financing a car purchase or even furniture or other household appliances is now much more difficult. It’s no surprise then why rent to own businesses are popping up everywhere across the country.  Demand for rent to own stores is fierce.

Nowadays you can rent to own practically anything from a pair of tire rims (seriously), to a car and even a home.  Rent to own cars are now big business — and if you don’t believe me just ask WalMart.  They just opened up rent to own car programs in the Phoenix area. =)