After Foreclosure: Steps to Start Rebuilding Your Credit

Start with a secured credit card or credit-builder loan to establish new positive payment history immediately. Pay every bill on time going forward — payment history is the single largest factor in score recovery.

Check your credit reports for errors related to the foreclosure (incorrect dates or balances can be disputed). Keep credit utilization low on any open accounts.

Most homeowners see meaningful score recovery within 12–24 months of consistent, on-time payments, even before the foreclosure fully ages off the 7-year report window — recovery is gradual, but it is real, and it starts the moment you begin.