200-300 basis-points means 2-3% (for the non-finance types).
So your 6% loan is now a 9% loan.
So your 6% loan is now a 9% loan.
I never used credit from 18-25 aside from churning some credit cards.
And yes, Prime is low today.
Also, if you can make a play for real property: buy dirt. It's a good financial play to build equity/wealth.