declaring bankruptcy

What’s the Difference between Bankruptcy and Foreclosure?

One must decide whether or not to choose bankruptcy or foreclosure. It is not usually easy and is rarely acceptable to make a decision that is black and white. If monthly mortgage payments are not made, the lender will file a foreclosure. There is only on way to stop this from happening and that is pay the mortgage lender. Mortgage loans are just like car loans, if you do not make payments you will lose it. So, this is identical to what will occur if someone fails to pay their mortgage – foreclosure will take their home from them.

A legal action filed by somebody who is unable to pay his debts is called as bankruptcy. While the debtor is going through bankruptcy, this step puts an end to anyone engaged in civil proceedings. Therefore, according to law, the mortgage lender must stop all legal action (including foreclosure). However, a mortgage lender can file for relief from the automatic stay, and when the relief is granted, simply proceed with the aforementioned action. In short, bankruptcy will not allow a debtor to retain a house without paying his debt to the mortgage lender, and it will not halt the foreclosure process. Going into bankruptcy does not solve the problem; it only makes the process proceed more slowly.

While bankruptcy does not stop foreclosure, it can give a person time to pay a mortgage lender or make it easier for a person to pay a mortgage lender. Because bankruptcy forces a mortgage lender to stop the foreclosure proceeding, it gives the debtor additional time to come up with funds to repay the lender. It is the last resort for any debtor to declare bankruptcy when he is totally unable to meet his creditors commitments. Under such circumstances, he may be discharged by some unsecured debts but under mortgage, he shall be prepare to repay the debt within the given time as the debt is secured by tangible assets. Also, a chapter 13 bankruptcy is a court ordered payment plan and allows a debtor to pay the mortgage catch up amount over a period of time.

Unfortunately, not everyone qualifies for bankruptcy and if they do qualify, there are legal fees to pay. The legal fees and other related costs can be more than that required to catch up and pay current mortgage payments. If you think that bankruptcy might help in stopping or avoiding foreclosure, speak with a licensed advocate. Bankruptcy is so detailed that you should not try to handle it by yourself.

The article is composed of generalized info, so if there are any queries of any type in regards to this subject you need to consult with an attorney licensed in your state.