What effect does a foreclosure have on a borrower's credit score?

A foreclosure can significantly lower a borrower's credit score because it represents a severe delinquency in the borrower's payment history. Credit scores are heavily influenced by payment history, accounting for approximately 35% of the total score. When a borrower goes through a foreclosure, it indicates to lenders and credit bureaus that the borrower was unable to meet their mortgage obligations. This negative event is typically recorded on the borrower's credit report for up to seven years.

The intensity of the score drop due to foreclosure varies depending on the individual's credit profile prior to the event; borrowers with higher scores may see a more substantial reduction. Additionally, this negative mark can impede the borrower's ability to obtain new credit or loans in the future, as lenders view foreclosures as a significant risk factor. The overall consequence is a much lower credit score, which highlights the profound impact a foreclosure has on a borrower's creditworthiness.