Nationally, credit scores average somewhere between 600 and 800. In Hawaii, the average credit score is 688. If you have recently filed bankruptcy, your FICO score probably falls somewhere below 600, and maybe even below 500.

Though you can get a post-bankruptcy Hawaii mortgage refinance with your current score, you may want to try rebuilding your credit before refinancing to make sure you qualify for optimal rates. Here are a few tips to help you rebuild your score quickly:

Review Your Credit Report

To rebuild your credit for a post-bankruptcy Hawaii mortgage refinance, the first thing you want to do is get a copy of your credit report. It is very common to have errors on your credit report, but after bankruptcy, it is even more common. Surveys have shown that approximately 75 percent of the people in Hawaii have incorrect information on their report. These mistakes will never be corrected unless they are brought to someone’s attention.

Don’t Make Late Payments

When you make loan payments on time, it can take anywhere from six months to a year to improve your credit score. When you make a late payment, you lower your credit score instantly. If you want to get a post-bankruptcy Hawaii mortgage refinance, it is imperative that you make your current mortgage payments on time, every time.

Lower Your Debt to Income Ratio

Credit scores aren’t the only thing lenders look at to determine whether or not they will approve you for a post-bankruptcy Hawaii mortgage refinance. They also look at your debt to income ratio. If you have a lot of debt, you will be considered a greater risk. The best thing you can do is pay down your credit cards and other debts as much as possible prior to applying for your refinance loan.

Visit Hawaii Lending Center
to see our Recommended After Bankruptcy Mortgage Refinance Lenders Servicing Hawaii, whether you are looking for home purchase, refinance or a home equity loan.