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The Daily Insight Hub

Is it hard to get a mortgage with a repossession?

Author

Andrew Campbell

Updated on February 18, 2026

Yes, particularly in today’s mortgage market. A car is repossessed because the borrower couldn’t or simply didn’t repay the debt. Mortgage lenders now are much more stringent in their lending standards. So having any debt problems can make it more difficult to qualify for a mortgage loan.

Can you still have good credit with a repo?

Having your car repossessed can have a negative impact on your credit history and stay on your credit report for up to seven years from the original delinquency date.

How long does it take to build credit after repossession?

seven years
A repossession takes seven years to come off your credit report. That seven-year countdown starts from the date of the first missed payment that led to the repossession. When you finance a vehicle, the lender owns it until it is completely paid off. The vehicle is the collateral that secures the debt.

Is there any difference between a repossession and a voluntary repossession?

The Differences Voluntary repossession is exactly what it sounds like: you give up your car to the dealer or lender. If you don’t take the vehicle in yourself, an involuntary repossession occurs. This means that the repo man will show up at any given time or place to seize the vehicle without warning.

Can a car repossession prevent you from getting a mortgage?

Mortgage lenders now are much more stringent in their lending standards. So having any debt problems can make it more difficult to qualify for a mortgage loan. Before you apply, take steps to make sure your finances are in order. Repay any remaining debt after the repossession.

What happens if you default on a car loan?

It can be difficult to part ways with a car or house you’ve been working to pay down, but in the event of default, selling it may be your best recourse to recouping the cost, paying back the lender, and preserving your finances with minimal losses. Taking the initiative here can prevent repossession, foreclosure or seizure of the asset.

What happens to my credit if I file bankruptcy?

Not that it’s bad enough that your situation goes to what it was, don’t forget that you filed the bankruptcy in the first place; it will show on your credit, and stay there for the next 7 to 10 years. Whether you complete your case or not, you still filed a bankruptcy and your credit will reflect doing so.

What happens when a cosigned loan goes into default?

As if facing catastrophic loan default isn’t bad enough, a failed cosigning can also mean a strained relationship between both parties, whether it’s a parent and child, husband and wife, or two friends. Once the loan is in default, communication is key. Don’t treat each other like enemies.