Getting a mortgage after bankruptcy

If you’ve filed for bankruptcy in the last seven to 10 years, you’ll likely have to pay higher interest rates on a new mortgage — especially if you can’t put up a large down payment.

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What is a bankruptcy discharge?

A bankruptcy discharge is a court order releasing you from your obligation to pay any debts that were included in your bankruptcy filings. Essentially, it means that the bankruptcy process is finished.

Can I get a mortgage after bankruptcy?

As with personal loans and even business loans, but it will be more difficult to get approved after a bankruputcy. you may need to come up with a bigger down payment or deal with higher interest rates. And you won’t be eligible until after a waiting period.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy

You’ll need to wait at least two years before applying for an FHA or VA loan and four year before applying for a conventional loan backed by Fannie Mae, Ginnie Mae or Freddie Mac — the government enterprises that back or buy most conventional loans. If you can prove extenuating circumstances for the bankruptcy, like medical issues or losing your job, the waiting period can be cut to two years.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy

If your bankruptcy is over or you’ve been making payments for more than a year, you can qualify for an FHA or VA loan. To qualify for a conventional mortgage backed by Fannie Mae, Ginnie Mae or Freddie Mac, you’ll need to wait two years after discharge or four years after dismissal.

Tips for applying for a mortgage after bankruptcy

To find a mortgage that works for you:

• Research lenders. Look for a lender who has offered loans after a bankruptcy discharge in the past. Also, take the time to research reviews and make sure they’re a fair and reliable lender.
• Compare options. You’ll likely need to pay a higher interest rate, but how much higher can vary greatly from one lender to the next. Comparing multiple lenders can help you find a rate that’s fair.
• Only apply to one. Every application for a loan appears on your credit file, and serial borrowing is viewed negatively by lenders. Apply only to your top lender, and wait a while before applying to a new one if your application is denied.

How to compare mortgages

When choosing between mortgage providers, compare your options based on:

• Availability. Not all mortgage companies will be willing to offer a loan to someone who has a bankruptcy discharge on their file. Check if you’re eligible for a mortgage before applying.
• Interest rates. Even a small difference in the interest rate can add up to thousands over the life of the loan.
• Fees. These include application fees, origination fees and anything else that might be rolled into the closing costs. You’ll also want to check if you’ll need to pay any fees if you either repay the loan early or refinance in a few years.
• Features and deals. Some banks will offer special deals if you open a checking or savings account at the same time.

Pros and cons of getting a mortgage with a bankruptcy discharge

Bottom line

If you’ve filed for bankruptcy in the past, it doesn’t mean you can’t ever get a mortgage again — but it does mean you may need to wait a few years before applying.
If you’re already past the waiting period, compare mortgage lenders to find out what your options are.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it possible to get a mortgage before the waiting period is over?

  Yes, some private banks and lending institutions will offer you a mortgage that isn’t backed by the government. Because you’ll be considered a high-risk borrower, you’ll likely need a large down payment to qualify.

• How much do I need to save up for a down payment after bankruptcy?

  It’s possible to get a mortgage with as little as 5% down, but if you have a bankruptcy discharge on your credit file you’ll be significantly more likely to get approved for a mortgage with a down payment of 20% or more.

• Can I get a mortgage if I'm still in the process of bankruptcy?

  Yes, if you’re filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy and you’ve been making on-time payments for more than a year, you can qualify for a mortgage.

Written by

Dawn Daniels

Publisher

Dawn Daniels is a freelance content strategist and SEO manager and former editor at Finder, specializing in investments and lending. Dawn has edited more than 50 published books, including personal finance titles that have become best sellers on the Amazon Top 100. She holds a BA in English language and literature from Cornell College. See full bio