If you fail to pay your mortgage on time, you may lose your property through foreclosure. This process has long-term financial implications, and recovery can be difficult if you are not prepared.
Foreclosure is the result of failing to meet your repayment obligations. Here’s how it can impact your finances in the future.
The impact of foreclosure on your credit
This information can remain on your credit record for seven years. With foreclosure data available to the public, you may find it challenging to obtain a conventional mortgage and may have to look for alternatives.
One option is to apply for a loan with the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). If the agency denies your application, you may obtain a subprime mortgage, which involves expensive interest rates that will only get pricier over time.
Recovering after a foreclosure
While a foreclosure will stay on your record for seven years, you do not need to wait that long to try to recover.
The first step to rebuilding is to pay your bills on time to achieve good credit. Paying your balance on time and in full means you do not have to worry about carrying over any fees and paying interest the following month. This habit may help eliminate the stress of debts and unpaid credit charges.
It would be best to keep your credit utilization low to show lenders that you do not use up your credit limit. A good rule of thumb is to keep this rate at 10% and no higher than 30%.
Remember that living through foreclosure does not mean your finances are doomed forever. Paying fees on time and managing your credit wisely may help you bounce back even if the foreclosure is still on your record.