Can I Sell My House with Mortgage Arrears?

If you've fallen behind on your mortgage payments and have been struggling with keeping up with the arrears, you might be wondering if it's possible to sell your house. The good news is that yes, it is possible to sell a home when you have mortgage arrears. 

Key Takeaway

No matter what your financial situation is, it's important to understand that you can still sell a property with mortgage arrears. However, the process may be more complex than if you didn't have any arrears, so it is recommended to consult with a professional for guidance.

Can I Sell My Home If I'm Behind On My Mortgage?

The answer is yes, it is possible to sell a home while you are behind on your mortgage payments. However, there are some steps you will need to take in order to make sure that all parties involved in the sale of the property are properly compensated. 

Firstly, you will need to contact your lender and explain your situation. Your lender can provide guidance on what you need to do in order to pay off the arrears. This may involve refinancing the loan, negotiating a repayment plan, or even selling the home. 

You should also consult with a real estate attorney before listing your home for sale. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the legal implications of selling a home with mortgage arrears and ensure that the sale goes smoothly. Once you've gone through these steps and made arrangements with your lender, you can then go ahead and list your home for sale. 

Informing Potential Buyers About Your Mortgage Arrears

It's important to note that while it is possible to sell a home with mortgage arrears, it may be difficult to find a buyer who is willing to take on the risk. You will want to make sure that any potential buyers are aware of the situation, and you may need to offer incentives or discounts in order to attract any potential buyers. This ensures that they are fully informed before making an offer on the property, and it also helps to protect them from any unforeseen issues that could arise due to the arrears.

Considerations When Selling With Mortgage Arrears

When selling a house with mortgage arrears, it's important to keep in mind that you will need to ensure that the amount of money received from the sale covers the outstanding amount still owed on the property. This means that you may not be able to get back as much money as you would without any arrears.

It is also important to note that most lenders will not approve a sale unless it is to an individual who has the financial means to pay off the remaining mortgage debt.

What If You Can't Sell Your Home?

If you are unable to sell your home due to mortgage arrears, there are still options for you. Depending on your situation, it may be possible to work with your lender to come up with a new payment plan that will allow you to catch up on your arrears over time. Alternatively, you can consider refinancing the mortgage or speaking with a financial advisor about other options for managing your debt.

No matter what route you decide to take, it's important to speak with your lender and a real estate attorney before making any decisions. They can help guide you through the process and make sure that all of your interests are protected.

The Bottom Line

It can be a challenging process to sell a home with mortgage arrears, but it is possible if you take the right steps and communicate openly with your lender. Before you start the selling process, make sure to carefully consider all potential options. If you are able to catch up on missed payments or restructure your loan, this may be a better option. But if you decide to go ahead with a sale, make sure you are prepared and have done your research. With the right approach and knowledgeable resources, you can successfully sell your home and get back on track with your mortgage payments.