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.
Because you will be paying a higher mortgage rate due to your bankruptcy, it is important to shop from a variety of lenders for the most competitive offer. When you compare mortgage offers make sure you compare all fees and don’t get hung up on mortgage rates. Many people think choosing the loan with the lowest rate means they’ll get a good deal when mortgage refinancing. These homeowners overpay thousands of dollars because the neglected to take lender fees and closing costs into consideration when they picked a mortgage rate.
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.
You will need to spend some time learning about mortgages and researching mortgage lenders. This will allow you to avoid making many of the costly mistakes homeowners make when refinancing their mortgages. Shop from a variety of mortgage lenders and compare interest rates, lender fees and closing costs; by making this comparison from a variety of mortgage lenders you will be able to spot lenders that are trying to take advantage of borrowers with their terms, conditions, and fees.