Actually, there's no real need to have credit. just save up for purchases such as the car and other items. Most real mortgage companies use your employment and your rent history. Had I known then what I know now, I would have done my credit much differently. As it stands I'm 25 making 21k a year, and I'm 40k in debt with a car and credit cards..
check out
www.daveramsey.com. I've been listening to him for about 8 months, and my financial situation has done a 360.. it's worth a look if you're open minded.