Bankruptcy makes most people feel hopeless and helpless. Don't feel this way! Just because you have a bankruptcy in your report does not mean that you can't buy a home or property. Lenders and lending institutions encourage people to find ways to build credit by taking on a debt and that debt could be buying a new home. Of course the lending companies will look at your credit very closely and you would probably get a smaller loan than you would if you did not have bankruptcy on your credit report. You are considered a high risk borrower because of the bankruptcy. Attempting to raise your credit score after a bankruptcy, no matter how successful, is a step in the right direction so don't be discouraged.
Most people do not know how a bankruptcy can affect their credit rating. Bankruptcy can provide a way out for people who have serious financial troubles by setting them free from paying back some of their debts. Unless you back is against the wall, it's not a wise thing to do. A bankruptcy can affect your credit from 7 to 10 years. Any time somebody reads the bankruptcy on your credit report it will be like a red flag and you will be closely scrutinized. Be prepared for the highest interest rates for even a small purchase such as a car. Where a normal person would get a 5 or 6% interest-rate, a person with a bankruptcy could get an interest-rate as high as 10 to 15%.
How do you build your credit up and find a home loan after bankruptcy? First, you need to pay your bills on time. Paying bills on time will build your credit rating faster than any other method. You may want to acquire a secured credit card. Even though the money that you would be spending on the credit card is your own, you are still building credit. another method is getting a copy of your credit report. There are errors on credit reports too many times where it is reported you owe money when you don't.
When your financial direction is reliable, it is time to try to find a home loan. Make sure you have a steady income, enough money for a down payment, and at least two years of employment under your belt, and you have paid your bills on time. Although, some lenders may let you slide on one of these points, most look at all three when it comes time to grant that first mortgage. Even if you have a steady job and steady income you must prove to the lenders that you are steadfast in that job and will not change jobs or lose your job after the mortgage is granted. You may have to put a sizable down payment and pay a higher interest rate than the person who has a good credit history and no bankruptcy on their current report, but in the end if you use good credit practices, eventually you'll find someone to lend you money for a home.
Finding a reputable lender willing to loan a home's total value to someone just beginning the process of rebuilding their credit and with an on-again off-again employment situation, is a tall order and probably not a good idea for the would-be borrower. Post-bankruptcy borrowing should be undertaken at a slow pace and with an eye toward the future. With proof of responsible borrowing and spending, home ownership won't be far off.
And if necessary you can also search for guaranteed unsecured loans which can be another suitable loan alternative.
