How to Sell My House After Filing Chapter 7

Selling a home after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be very challenging and difficult. There are specific rules that you must follow to remain compliant with the law and with bankruptcy proceedings. Most real estate agents will not work with individuals in active bankruptcy to sell their home, because it is prohibited by law. However, it is possible to sell a house even after filing Chapter 7.

Things You'll Need

• Court paperwork
• Discharge paperwork
• Clear title to the property

Instructions

1. Ensure that your title is clear and that the bankruptcy did not result in any liens against your property. You can do this very easily by contacting a local title company or by completing a title search at your local county clerk's office.

2. Have your bankruptcy discharged by the courts so that all debts are cleared. This will help you move forward with the sale of a property. Make sure all pertinent court paperwork in relation to the bankruptcy is filed at the county clerk's office to verify clear title to the property.

3. Find a Realtor who can sell your home quickly. For a good list of references, use websites like Homegain.com to locate professional Realtors and compare them side by side prior to making a selection. Pick a Realtor who understands your situation and who has a background in marketing. Provide him with copies of the discharge instructions for the bankruptcy so he can take the listing.

4. Put the property on the market, and accommodate buyers as they view the home. Having the home ready for showing condition will assist you with a faster sale.

Tips & Warnings

• Hire a Realtor based on aptitude and track record, not experience alone.

• Do not expect to make a large profit on the sale of your property after bankruptcy; some of that might have to be given to the lender. Do not contact a Realtor until the bankruptcy has been discharged by the courts.

References

• Selling a Home After Filing Chapter 7

Resources

• Home Gain