Shannon and Colin

Newlyweds Shannon and Colin started their marriage off in an unusual way – as an engaged couple, they purchased a brand new home and made the mortgage payments for eight months while still living separately in their parents’ homes. Once they moved in, Shannon’s desire for the the lifestyle of a couple twice their age led them to some expensive choices, and now it’s all catching up to them. Amongst other things, the young pair argue about how much debt they’re actually in: Shannon says it’s about $30,000, while Colin insists the sum is only $25,000. Whatever the sum, one thing they can agree on is that “having become accustomed to certain lifestyles in a rent free environment,” they’re now finding it difficult to give up their free spending ways. They admit they’re in way over their heads. Besieged by the escalating payments, they want a way out that won’t cost them everything they (don’t) own. They lack the tools, expertise and perhaps even the will power to manage on their own and they’re desperate for a kick in the pants from Gail to get them back on track.