Buying a house after divorce

Your next home, on your own terms

Buying on one income after years of two can feel uncertain. With the right documents, things like support income, settlement funds and debts assigned to your ex can work in your favor.

Count spousal and child support as qualifying income when it meets lender rules
Leave out payments your judgment assigns to your ex, with the right paperwork
Use settlement proceeds for your down payment
Shop with a fully underwritten approval so sellers take your offer seriously

Start my approval

Start your approval

Tell me a little about your situation. I'll call you back within one business day, or you can book a time on the next screen.

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What to gather

The documents lenders ask for in a divorce file

From your case

Signed marital settlement agreement or final judgment, all pages
Support order showing amount and duration
Proof you've been receiving support, like bank deposits

From you

Recent pay stubs and two years of W2s or tax returns
Two months of bank and asset statements
Any quitclaim or title documents from the old home

Common questions

Buying after divorce

How soon after a divorce can I buy a house?

There's no required waiting period after a divorce. What matters is that your income, debts and support are documented in a way a lender can use. Many people buy within months of their judgment.

Can I buy a house during my divorce?

It can be done, but an underwriter will want to know what you'll owe and receive. A signed settlement makes this much easier. Talk with me and your attorney before writing an offer.

Can I use my settlement money for a down payment?

Yes. Funds you receive in a settlement can be used for a down payment and closing costs once they're documented with the agreement and a paper trail into your account.

What if my credit took a hit during the divorce?

It happens a lot. Late payments on accounts your ex was supposed to pay can sometimes be explained with the judgment. I'll review your report and tell you plainly what it'll take.

Why it's different

Divorce files need a lender who reads the judgment

A standard approval looks at pay stubs and credit. A divorce file also depends on what your judgment says about support, debts and property. Missing one line can change your approval. After 26 years I know what underwriters look for, and I check it before you make an offer.

Keeping the house instead? Run the buyout