Your Home in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

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What will happen to your home and mortgage in Chapter 7 bankruptcy? Can Chapter 7 help you prevent or avoid foreclosure?

In Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the homestead exemption protects many people's homes. But if you have lots of equity in your home, you might lose it. And if you are behind in your mortgage, Chapter 7 does not provide a way to catch up. Find out more below.

For articles on real estate other than your home, see Rental and Investment Property in Bankruptcy.

Articles on Your Home in Chapter 7

What Happens to Your Mortgage in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
Here's the lowdown on how your mortgage is treated in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
How to Value Your Home in Bankruptcy
Learn how to value your home when filing for bankruptcy.
Can I Remove Junior Liens and Mortgages in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy?
If you live in Alabama, Florida, or Georgia, you might be able to get rid of junior mortgages in Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Can I Keep My Home in Bankruptcy if I Am Behind on HOA Dues?
Whether you'll lose your home in bankruptcy if you are behind in HOA assessments often depends on whether you file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

The Homestead Exemption

Learn about the homestead exemption and find your state's homestead exemption.

Homestead Exemptions by State
Click on this link to go to our Bankruptcy in Your State page. Then click on your state link to find state-specific bankruptcy information, including state exemptions.
The Chapter 7 Homestead Exemption
If you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, whether you can keep your home depends, in large part, on your state's homestead exemption. Here's how the homestead exemption works.

Bankruptcy and Foreclosure: Can You Save Your Home? Learn More

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and Foreclosure
Go through the steps to see if you can save your home from foreclosure in Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
More on Bankruptcy and Foreclosure
Learn more about foreclosure, nonbankruptcy foreclosure defenses, and how bankruptcy can help.

Your Home in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Sometimes Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the better option if you want to save your home.

Your Home in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Catching up on arrears, avoiding foreclosure, getting rid of second mortgages, and more.

Common Questions About Homes, Mortgages, and Foreclosures in Bankruptcy

Nolo Books on Bankruptcy, Debt, and Foreclosure

The Foreclosure Survival Guide: Keep Your House or Walk Away With Money in Your Pocket
If you're having trouble making your mortgage payments or are already in jeopardy of foreclosure, this book gives you the practical information you need, step by step.

How to File for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
The reliable, up-to-date information in this best-selling book will help you successfully complete your bankruptcy claim without breaking the bank.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Keep Your Property & Repay Debts Over Time
This comprehensive guide explains the Chapter 13 process, from start to finish.

Solve Your Money Troubles: Debt, Credit & Bankruptcy
Get out of debt and solve your money troubles with this complete guide to repairing your credit and regaining financial freedom.