if i consolidate credit cards does it affect credit score?

It may hurt your score depending on what the balances are on the existing cards. Generally opening a new card will lower your score, but paying down the balance on others so that they are now less than 30% of the limit on that card (or even less than 50% of the limit) can help, and it can help you qualify for a larger mortgage if your total payments are less as a % of your income (DTI)

True Consolidation will probably have a negative effect on your credit scores.

Possibly.. but without putting your complete profile in a simulator, it's difficult to say exactly.. if your doing a consolidation loan, then these types of loans can actually bring your credit score down.. however if you take the proceeds and pay off your credit cards, it could raise your score.. whether or not your overall score would improve, it's difficult to say.. I'm a Broker here in Scottsdale AZ and I only lend in Arizona. If you or someone you know is looking for financing options, feel free to contact me or pass along my information. William J. Acres, Lender411's number ONE lender in Arizona. 480-287-5714 WilliamAcres.com