You sound like someone who's never dealt with a blackspot on their credit history (as an aside, never leave bills in your name when you move out, trusting your ex-housemates not to be douchebags).

It's not about not being able to borrow, it's about companies refusing to accept your business because you're a "risk", even when you offer to pay out the entire contract up front to show you're good for the money. It's a fucking pain in the ass