A previous bankruptcy can remain in a credit file for seven to 10 years.
Depending on when the bankruptcy was discharged and what kind of credit a borrower has reestablished since then, it needn't be an obstacle to obtaining loan approval. The longer ago the discharge occurred, the better off a loan applicant will be.
Many lenders also will take into account the circumstances surrounding a bankruptcy. For example, they may look more favorably upon you as a borrower if your bankruptcy was due to financial reverses you suffered due to your employer's own financial difficulties. On the other hand, if you declared bankruptcy because you overextended your personal credit lines and lived beyond your means, a lender probably won't be as forgiving.
If you are in the latter category, you may want to contact a mortgage broker who may qualify them for a "b" or "c ," loan, which usually comes at a higher interest rate.
Resources:
* "Clean Up Your Credit File," Nolo Press, Berkeley, Calif.; 2001.

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