The Mortgage Sensei

SECOND CHANCE MORTGAGE · 11 STATES

Buy a Home After Bankruptcy, Foreclosure or Credit Setbacks

A past event does not always end your homeownership plans. Duane looks at waiting periods, credit steps and loan options across the 11 states where I am licensed.

Licensed in 11 states

Compare many lenders

No-pressure advice

WHAT IT IS

Rebuilding, then buying

Loan programs set different waiting periods after a bankruptcy, foreclosure, short sale or deed in lieu. Some are shorter when the event came from circumstances outside your control.

Even before a waiting period ends, a plan helps. We review credit, payment history and savings, then map out the earliest realistic timeline. Waiting periods and rules vary by program and can change.

FHA and VA options

These programs often have shorter waiting periods than conventional loans. Specific terms depend on the event.

Non-QM options

Some Non-QM programs consider shorter seasoning, usually with a larger down payment and a different rate.

Credit review

I go through your report with you and point out the items that matter most for approval.

A timeline you can follow

You leave the call knowing what to do, in what order and when to check back.

HOW IT WORKS

From setback to preapproval

01

Review your history

Tell me about the event, the date and what has happened since.

02

Check the clock

I match your timeline to each program's waiting period.

03

Strengthen the file

On-time payments, lower balances and savings all help.

04

Apply when ready

Once you fit a program, we move to preapproval and house hunting.

LOCAL KNOW-HOW

A fresh start in 11 states

Program availability can vary by state and by lender. I check what is offered where your property is located.

Virginia

Fresh start in Virginia

Many Virginia buyers pair rebuilding with VA or FHA loans, and may also check Virginia Housing programs where eligible.

Tennessee

Fresh start in Tennessee

Tennessee buyers can compare FHA, VA and conventional options, and check THDA programs where eligible.

Georgia

Fresh start in Georgia

Georgia buyers can compare FHA, VA and conventional options, and check Georgia Dream programs where eligible.

FAQ

Second chance mortgage questions

How long after bankruptcy can I buy?

It depends on the bankruptcy type and the loan program. Some programs allow a purchase after a couple of years. Ask me for your specific timeline.

What credit score do I need?

Minimums vary by program. FHA allows lower scores than most conventional loans. I check where you stand today.

Should I fix my credit first?

Sometimes a few targeted steps make a difference. I will tell you honestly whether waiting helps or whether you can move now.

NEXT STEP

Wondering where you stand?

A short conversation can show you the earliest realistic path. No pressure.

Duane Buziak, NMLS #1110647, Coast2Coast Mortgage, LLC, NMLS #376205. Licensed in VA, FL, TN, GA, NC, SC, MD, DC, WV, TX and KY. Equal Housing Lender. This information is educational and is not an indication of loan qualification, approval or a commitment to lend. Rates, programs and guidelines change and are subject to credit approval.