Foreclosure and your credit rating

Many people have some misconceptions about foreclosure, bankruptcy and credit rating. If you learn the facts, it can make a difference on the decisions you make when you face the possibility of foreclosure.

Foreclosures do not go away once they are completed. It can be on your credit report for seven years; impacting any future applications you make for credit for credit cards, automobile loans, household purchases, home rental or home purchase.

Bankruptcy or what many consider 'starting over' can remain on your credit history for ten years. So it is only slightly better on your credit report than bankruptcy.

Situations leading to foreclosure take months to lead up to the point of no return. Payments start out a little late and get progressively later each month. Then late charges start kicking in and you end up in a situation you can't get out of. To avoid foreclosure, you must take steps before you get to that situation.

If you are having difficulty paying your mortgage payments on time talk to your lender about a repayment plan. This is especially handy if you only missed due to a temporary problem like an accident that cost you a lot in medical bills. Certain lenders will allow you to pay off the missed payment over 2 or 3 months so ask.

The sole way to get your lender working with you is to allow them to know what is going on. If you are having problems meeting your payments contact them right away and tell them why. If you postpone until you get way behind on your payments then you will lose all credibility and any trust that the loaner had in you will be gone.

You must try and make all payments timely, every month. When a payment is going to be late, let the mortgage company know in advance. If payments are late and you receive phone calls, do not avoid them but honestly answer their questions and explain your situation. Ask if they have a department to deal with people that need help. If your situation is only short term, work out an arrangement to get back on schedule.

If you can't make any arrangements with the mortgage lender, find a non-profit counseling service to help with your situation. They have minimal fees and can sometimes work out terms with the lender when you are unable and help you avoid foreclosure.

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