HomeAdviceBuyingWhat disqualifies you from buying a house?

What disqualifies you from buying a house?

I want to buy a house but have some things in my past that are not so good. what will stop me from being able to buy a house?

Asked by Ed 32 viewsBuying03-18-2026

Answers (4)

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Becky GroeRising Star29 Answers
Becky Groe

Coldwell Banker Realty, Colorado Springs · Colorado Springs, CO

(82 reviews)
This is actually a very common concern, and the good news is that very few things permanently prevent someone from buying a home. In most cases, it\'s not about having a perfect financial history, it\'s about your current financial stability and readiness. Some factors that lenders typically look at include: • Credit score and recent payment history • Your income and job stability • Your debt-to-income ratio (how much debt you have compared to income) • Savings for down payment and reserves • Recent major credit events (bankruptcy or foreclosure timelines) Things that may delay buying (but often don’t permanently disqualify someone) can include: • Low credit score • High debt levels • Recent late payments • Recent bankruptcy or foreclosure (these usually have waiting periods) • Unresolved collections What many buyers don’t realize is that lenders are often more focused on what you’re doing now rather than mistakes from years ago. I’ve seen many buyers become homeowners after: • Improving their credit score • Paying down some debt • Establishing consistent income • Following a lender’s step-by-step plan A good first step is usually speaking with a lender who can review your situation and tell you: • Where you currently stand • What might need improvement • How long it might take to qualify • What price range may be realistic Many people are closer than they think once they get clear guidance.
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03-19-2026··
Jordana Jared ProctorRising Star18 Answers
Jordana Jared Proctor

Keller Willams Westfield · Orem, UT

(25 reviews)
It’s less about your past in general and more about what shows up on paper right now. Lenders look closely at credit, income, debt, and any recent bankruptcies or foreclosures. Big gaps in employment or unpaid collections can hurt too. That said, plenty of people with rough histories still qualify—it just might take time, cleanup, or a different type of loan.
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03-18-2026··
Lana RovinelliNovice4 Answers
Lana Rovinelli

RE/MAX Creative Realty · Lexington, KY

(14 reviews)
A low credit score, high debt to earnings ratio, and spotty employment history can cause difficulty in purchasing a home. Also, savings for a down payment is important as to what type of loan you can get.
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03-18-2026··
Valerie MooreNovice1 Answer
Valerie Moore

West USA Realty of Prescott · Prescott, AZ

Please contact a good lender who can guide you toward homeownership,. There are many factors that go into the ability to purchase a home, primarily your credit score, debt, and income. A really good lender will show you what you need to do to qualify for a loan, and what price home you can afford, there should be no upfront cost for this, they get paid when the loan closes.
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03-18-2026··
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