If you are a homeowner with a recent bankruptcy and have been putting off mortgage refinancing, a new mortgage loan could help you rebuild your credit. It is much easier today to get approved with a recent bankruptcy than in previous years; however, it will take some work on your part to avoid overpaying for the loan. Here are several tips to help you avoid overpaying when mortgage refinancing after bankruptcy.
Refinancing your mortgage has many advantages: lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, cashing out equity, and rebuilding your credit, just to name a few. Because you have a bankruptcy on your record refinancing your mortgage will be more difficult, but not out of your reach. There are steps you need to take before you apply for a new mortgage; this will ensure you qualify for a decent interest rate and favorable terms on the new mortgage loan.
As soon as your bankruptcy is finalized apply for a credit card. You might think this is contrary to a lot of the advice your read regarding bankruptcy; however, it is crucial to establish a history of on time payments with a creditor as soon as possible after bankruptcy. This history of on time payments will help build your credit score. Being on time and maintaining a low balance on this credit card is the first step to rebuilding your credit.
Your first priority when rebuilding your credit is this: never, ever, make a late payment. This is so important to your credit score after bankruptcy. Having at least six months to two years of on time payments on your credit history will allow you to qualify for a much lower interest rate and get you favorable terms on your new mortgage; that means on time payments with your current mortgage lender, and on time payments with your new credit card.
Getting approved for a new mortgage isn’t hard; the hard part is finding a good mortgage offer. Researching mortgage lenders and comparing a variety of mortgage offers will help you find the most competitive interest rates. When shopping for a mortgage compare all aspects of the loan offers: interest rates, annual percentage rate, lender fees, and closing costs all need to be carefully scrutinized before accepting a loan offer.