Purchasing a home after a recent bankruptcy is not impossible. Although most lenders recommend that you wait at least 24 months before applying for a mortgage, there are ways to obtain a mortgage loan sooner. Lenders are generally willing to approve recent bankrupt individuals for a home loan. The home or property serves as the collateral. Thus, if you default on the mortgage, the lender forecloses on the property. Moreover, obtaining a mortgage loan is a perfect way to re-establish credit. Here are a few tips for improving your chances of obtaining a home mortgage after bankruptcy. Establish New Lines of Credit It is not mandatory that individuals with a recent bankruptcy wait 24 months before purchasing a new home. However, waiting has its advantages. After a bankruptcy is discharged, you need to begin rebuilding your credit. This is accomplished by opening new lines of credit. Applying for a credit card is the easiest and the quickest way to improve credit history. Initially, you may have to obtain a secured credit card. However, once your credit rating improves, you will begin to receive offers for unsecured credit cards. Ideally, you should open at least three new credit accounts. Maintain low balances. Avoid late payments. If possible, try and pay off balances each month. Monitor Credit Reports Once you have begun to re-establish your credit history, start a routine of regularly checking your credit report for errors or inaccuracies. Get involve with a credit report monitoring agency. These agencies are effective because any suspicious or unusual account activity will be brought to your attention. Moreover, the agency will contact you if a new account is opened in your name. If errors appear on your credit report, contact the credit report bureau to file a dispute, and the creditor to resolve the issue. Have a Down Payment Waiting 24 months after a discharge to purchase a home is advantageous because you are able to obtain a mortgage with 100% financing and little money down. If you are eager to purchase a home soon after a discharge, you must have a down payment. Moreover, your credit history since the bankruptcy has to be blemished-free. Late payments or missed payments may disqualify you from obtaining a mortgage loan. |
