Should i work with a debt consolidation/repair company if my credit score is 518?

My credit score is 518 so I do not qualify for loans with no bank loans even as prosper.com P2P . I've been reading books on debt management and am thinking of going to one of these companies . What is stopping me is that I know that will appear on my credit report and in doing so , I will almost bankruptcy . MedlinePlus MedlinePlus I have a goal for my debt to zero ( $ 6,000 ) in 2008 . then do what I want to start saving money and start looking for a house to buy , you know it's a long and difficult process . I have lots of blackheads on my credit report , but I think going to a debt program will make a darker mark on my record . MedlinePlus MedlinePlus Is it worthwhile for me to consolidate my debt ? MedlinePlus Will my credit score never grow to the range of 700 i ask? MedlinePlus how difficult it is to get a house after going to a debt program ?