20% re-fi mortgage, debt- consolidation

[Tarquin Ross]

My fiance and I are hoping to take a mortgage out on her property; approx. 18% = $85K on property valued at $520K. The purpose is to consolidate about $60K of her debt, including a CA state tax lien and some back property taxes. My credit is very good, hers poor. The deed title is solely in her name, no current mortgage. Is it better for us to be wed, or can we do it before nuptials?