Information in this article does constitute legal advice, is for informational purposes only and may not constitute the most up-to-date information. Readers should contact their attorney for advice to any particular legal matter.
Many people avoid filing for bankruptcy due to the fear of never qualifying for a home loan after Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, it's important to know that bankruptcy does not last forever. Life after bankruptcy includes the possibility of buying a house after Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
If you're wondering when you will be able to purchase a home, use the calculator below to estimate your eligibility.
Buying a Home After Bankruptcy
When it comes to getting a loan, most lending institutions require a minimum credit score of 580 before COVID-19 and 640 after COVID-19, as well as a 12-month history of on-time payments. However, it's important to note that results may vary.
If you're looking to buy a home after bankruptcy, there are estimated timelines to keep in mind. For a conventional loan, you'll typically need to wait 4 years from the discharge date. For FHA and VA loans, the wait time is 2 years from the discharge date. And for USDA/Rural Housing loans, the wait time is 3 years from the discharge date.
How Do I Improve My Chances to buy a home sooner after bankruptcy?
If you're planning to purchase a new property, it's important to understand the concept of bankruptcy seasoning requirements. These requirements are set by secondary mortgage purchasers who back and fund loans, and they're not negotiable.
So, what exactly are these requirements? Well, they refer to the amount of time that needs to pass after a bankruptcy before you can be eligible for a new loan. This time period varies depending on the type of bankruptcy filed and the loan program you're applying for.
While it may seem like a daunting task, there are ways to prepare for a new purchase despite these requirements. One of the best things you can do is to open and establish new lines of credit. By doing so, you can prove to lenders that you're responsible with credit and can manage your finances effectively.
Remember, bankruptcy seasoning requirements may present some challenges, but with the right preparation, you can still achieve your goal of purchasing a new property.
The Purpose of Filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
If you're struggling with debt, filing for bankruptcy might be a solution to consider. Filing for bankruptcy can help you get rid of most unsecured debts that you can't afford to pay. Unsecured debts include things like credit card debts, medical debts, personal loans, and old rent, utility, and lease payments. You can discharge most of these debts by filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
However, some debts cannot be discharged in bankruptcy, such as alimony, child support, some student loans, and taxes. It's important to keep this in mind when considering bankruptcy as an option.
By eliminating your unsecured debts, filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can give you a fresh start and help you get back on your feet financially. This can be a great first step towards rebuilding your finances and securing a better financial future, including the possibility of owning a home.
Purchasing a Home After Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Declaring a Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be a daunting process, but it can be a fresh start for those who are struggling financially. A typical no-asset Chapter 7 bankruptcy case usually takes between four to six months to close. However, it remains on your credit report for ten years. The good news is that this does not mean you have to wait ten years to qualify for a home loan. Depending on your financial circumstances and the type of loan, you could qualify for a home loan as soon as a year after filing for bankruptcy relief.
The type of home loan plays a significant role in determining when you can buy a house after Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Some home loans have specific rules that prevent borrowers from qualifying for a loan after bankruptcy for a certain period. For instance, the waiting period for most FHA loans is usually two years after the date of the bankruptcy discharge. However, you could qualify for an FHA loan after one year if you can prove that the bankruptcy was caused by circumstances beyond your control, such as a federal disaster or being laid off from work. Similarly, the waiting period for a VA loan is usually two years after a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge.
Conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae have different waiting periods. Most Fannie Mae-backed loans require a four-year waiting period to buy a house after Chapter 7 bankruptcy. However, the waiting period could be reduced to two years in some cases.
While unconventional lenders may not require you to wait as long to qualify for a home mortgage, they may charge unreasonable interest rates and fees for their products. It is usually best to wait until you qualify for a conventional loan or government loan. You can use the required waiting periods to improve your finances so that you are in the best financial position possible when you buy a home after Chapter 7.
Getting Ready to Buy a House After Chapter 7
Waiting to qualify for a home loan after bankruptcy can be challenging, but there are ways to improve your chances of getting a lower interest rate and better terms. Here are some tips to help you purchase a home after Chapter 7:
- Save up for a larger down payment on the home. A bigger down payment can help you qualify for better loan terms, and having an emergency savings account can prevent missing mortgage payments due to unexpected expenses.
- Improve your credit score by making all payments on time. Late payments on credit cards and other debts can quickly lower your credit score. Review your credit reports and correct any mistakes to improve your score. Also, consider applying for a secured credit card that reports your efforts to use good credit habits to the credit reporting agencies.
- Practice good personal budgeting habits. Create a household budget and stick to it to improve your financial management skills.
- Be honest with lenders about your financial history and work with them. Write a letter explaining why you had to file for bankruptcy, especially if it was due to an illness, accident, loss of a spouse, or unemployment. Explain how you have improved your finances and have a plan to handle emergency expenses in the future.
Although bankruptcy can delay buying a home, it doesn't mean you can't own one in the future. In fact, filing for bankruptcy can be the first step in resolving debt problems that are preventing you from owning a home now. With diligence and smart financial planning, you can buy a home after bankruptcy.
Let Us Help You Get Ready to Own a Home
Are you struggling with debt? We offer a range of services to help you not only get out of debt but also stay out of it. By managing your debts, you can secure your home or even buy a new one in the future. Wondering when you might be eligible to buy a house after bankruptcy? Try our calculator to find out.